Models present creations during the Burberry catwalk show at London Fashion Week in London, Britain, February 17, 2020. (Photo: REUTERS)

The appointment ends months of uncertainty at the 165-year-old group, which had been searching for a replacement for Gobbetti since June, when he announced his shock departure mid-way into a multi-year turnaround plan to take the brand further upmarket.

However, the relatively long transition period means it will take time for Akeroyd to stamp his mark on Burberry.

Burberry, known for its trench coats, trademark plaid and TB monogram, said Akeroyd, a 54-year-old Briton, was the right choice to build on its creative heritage.