Templeman succeeds Luke Mayhew, who steps down from the role on 1 October this year.

Commenting on the new hire, director general of the BRC, Stephen Robertson, says, ‘Rob is a heavyweight in the world of retail. His huge experience and formidable knowledge of the big issues that the sector faces make him an ideal chairman for the BRC as we work to help create a vibrant and sustainable retail industry for the future.’

Templeman is due to retire as chief executive of department store retailer Debenhams on 2 September, having joined in December 2003. He led the retailer through its IPO in May 2006.

He says, ‘Retail is one of the UK’s largest employers. It represents an important part of the country’s economy and the BRC has proven to be the authoritative voice for the industry.

‘The BRC provides an invaluable service to retailers of all different sizes across the sector. It also provides a platform for the industry to engage and liaise with one voice to government on the key issues facing the sector; I am delighted to play a part in its future development.’

Previously, Templeman was chief executive and subsequently chairman of Halfords Group, chief executive of Homebase Group and chief executive of Harveys Furnishing.

He is currently non-executive chairman at gambling group Gala Coral.

The BRC campaigns to promote and defend retailers’ interests and works to improve the perceptions of retailing in the UK.