Sainsbury’s has appointed former M&S co-chief executive Katie Bickerstaffe and The Sage Group boss Steve Hare as new non-executive directors.

The supermarket giant said Bickerstaffe, who left M&S in March last year, is a “highly regarded retail and consumer business leader, bringing strong perspectives on digital business models and transformation programmes”.

Hare, who is the current chief executive of The Sage Group, also joins the grocer’s board, bringing with him over 10 years of experience leading the finance function for three listed digital and technology UK companies.

Sainsbury’s chair Martin Scicluna said: “[Bickerstaffe and Hare’s] extensive experience and leadership in retail and digital businesses will be invaluable to our board.

“Katie’s strong perspectives on digital transformation and Steve’s expertise in leading tech businesses will greatly contribute to our strategic direction. We look forward to their insights and contributions as we continue to drive Sainsbury’s forward.”

Bickerstaffe commented: “Retail is an incredibly competitive sector and Sainsbury’s has a long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional value and quality to its customers. I’m excited to join the board and help Sainsbury’s to foster further innovation and excellence.”

Hare added: “I am thrilled to be joining the Sainsbury’s board at a very important time for the business. The Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy is an exciting vision for the future, and I look forward to working with the board and leadership team to continue creating value for shareholders.”

Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter