Galeries Lafayette Group names new Director of Strategy and Development

What: Sandra Weber has been named as Director of Strategy and Development.

Why it is important: The role will be charged with identifying growth vectors and opportunities for development at a challenging time for French department stores.

Weber is replacing Olivier Bron, who left to become chief executive officer of Central Group' s Central and Robinson department stores in Thailand. She reports to executive chairman Philippe Houzé.

Weber is an expert in corporate finance and strategic management who began her career at Goldman Sachs. She has also held positions at Go Sport and Casino. 

The appointment of the role comes at a critical time in French retail as the sector has struggled with sluggish demand and a sharp drop in foreign tourism.