David Jones chief executive Iain Nairn is leaving the department store after only 14 months in the job.
He has driven a significant improvement in sales since David Jones was bought by South Africa's Woolworths Holdings in August 2014, but has resigned for personal reasons.
Mr Nairn will stay on as an advisor for three months before his replacement, the head of general merchandise at UK retailer Marks & Spencer, John Dixon, moves to Sydney to step in.
Sales at David Jones soared 10.7 per cent in 2014/15 amid major changes, including the removal of almost 200 brands.
Before being appointed David Jones CEO, Mr Nairn was in charge of Country Road, which is also owned by Woolworths.
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"Over the past 3 years Iain has made a significant contribution to our Australian businesses," Woolworths chief executive Ian Moir said.
Mr Dixon, who has worked at Marks & Spencer for 25 years, is a world class retailer with a powerful combination of international food and fashion expertise, he said.
"John's appointment reflects our long term strategy to take the David Jones business to the next level," Mr Moir said.
Woolworths' big spending plans for David Jones include huge improvements in customer service, new stores with different formats and an overhaul of its flagship sites in Sydney and Melbourne.
Mr Dixon said it was a privilege to take on such a role with a business that lies at the heard of Australian society.
