Currys parent DSG International starts search for head of CRM

DSG said that the key purpose of the role will be to lead the customer data team to drive "not only tactical data insights but to help drive insight in the business to make the step change to have customers at the core of all our decision making".

Earlier this month DSG set out its plan to defend against American electricals giant Best Buy, which is planning to move into Britain.

The new head of CRM, who will be paid £85,000 plus benefits, will work closely with the head of customer research and head of business analysis.

Responsibilities will include: leading development and execution of the customer data strategy; proactively identifying areas where insight from customer data will better inform decision-making; and leading data agency selection and briefings.

A spokesman for DSG said that the new head of CRM role was "a natural progression as we continue to develop DSG's 'Renewal and Transformation Programme', focusing the entire business on the customer".

DSG is planning an aggressive response to Best Buy's planned UK move. John Browett, chief executive of DSG, said that the company could finance a £320m capital expenditure programme that would see up to 120 stores refitted by the end of this financial year using cash flow and its existing debt facilities.

He also hopes to have five mega stores by the end of 2010.

Sales at the 17 Currys stores that have already been refurbished, including its new mega store format near Birmingham, rose between 16 and 43% in the six weeks after opening, depending on format.