J Sainsbury plc has revealed that it has appointed Clodagh Moriarty to the new role of Group Chief Digital Officer with immediate effect. Through the role, Moriarty will be responsible for the creation and subsequent leadership of the Group’s digital strategy, ensuring customers experience an integrated and seamless digital experience across Sainsbury’s, Argos, Sainsbury’s Bank and Nectar divisions.

The news follows on from the grocery giant’s plan to partner with Unilever to develop new in-store ice cream parlours, as well as gearing up for a £12bn merger with Walmart-owned Asda.

With extensive experience across the business, most most recently as Director of Online, running Sainsbury’s Groceries Online business, Moriarty has been instrumental in growing online sales, profitability and driving customer innovation.

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 Such responsibilities have encompassed introducing same-day grocery delivery, one-hour grocery delivery in Chop Chop and SmartShop, which lets customers scan products themselves as they shop in stores.

“The creation of the new Group Chief Digital Officer role demonstrates the importance we place in giving customers outstanding and seamless digital shopping experiences. Investment in this area is vital to our future success and I am confident that Clodagh has the expertise and leadership we need in this area,” explained Mike Coupe, Group Chief Executive.

Clodagh Moriarty, Group Chief Digital Officer, added: “It’s a really exciting time to be working in retail and digital innovation is key to making our customers’ shopping experiences easier.

“I am supported by talented colleagues across the Group and see lots of opportunities to build on our existing platforms. I am delighted to be joining the Operating Board at such a pivotal time for our company.”