Jason Pullen, managing director of Gloucester Quays, has been appointed to the main board of the outlet centre's owners, Peel Land & Property group.

Mr Pullen, aged 40, has spearheaded the growth of Gloucester Quays which is now said to be the country's fastest growing outlet centre with the current footfall running at 6.7m over last year.

A Peel Land & Property spokesman said: "Jason has been instrumental in developing the company's Outlets division into an expanding, thriving business.

"He has already successfully implemented a turnaround strategy at Gloucester Quays, transforming the venue into the UK's fastest growing outlet and one of the region's top attractions."

As managing director of Peel's Lifestyle Outlets, Mr Pullen now also oversees the company's Manchester outlet located in MediaCityUK and a third site in development at Glasgow.

Leader of Gloucester City Council, Cllr Paul James, said: "Gloucester Quays is a huge asset for the city and that is due in no small part to the drive and determination shown by Jason Pullen.

"He has made the case within Peel for the huge investment they have put into Gloucester in recent years and which has made Gloucester Quays the success it is today. Jason has a real passion for Gloucester and recognises that Gloucester Quays thrives when the city as a whole prospers.

"Jason's promotion is richly-deserved and is good news for the city as well as for him personally."

Ian Mean, Gloucestershire director of the business organisation, Business West, said: "Gloucester owes a great deal to Jason's drive and partnership working with the Quays.

"He has helped make a huge difference to the economic prosperity of the city and made the Quays a real destination."