Debenhams Group has appointed Richard Vanoli as managing director of Debenhams, with the retailer saying the move will support the next phase of growth for the business.
Vanoli, who most recently served as chief commercial officer of Debenhams Group, brings more than 25 years of experience with the brand, having joined the business at the age of 19.
He began his career in allocation and went on to hold a series of senior leadership roles, spanning Debenhams’ time on the high street through to its evolution into a digital-first retailer.
In his new role, Vanoli will report to Debenhams Group chief executive Dan Finley and will focus on driving further growth across the business, including expanding the retailer’s marketplace, strengthening brand partnerships and continuing investment in technology to improve the customer experience.
The appointment comes as Debenhams continues to position itself as a major player in online retail following its acquisition out of administration in 2021.
Since then, the business has been rebuilt as a digital-first operation and now trades as an online department store spanning fashion, beauty and home through its marketplace model. Debenhams Group said the platform now works with more than 20,000 brand partners and serves millions of customers.
The retailer’s transformation has also played a central role in the wider group’s strategy, with the company recently rebranding as Debenhams Group and positioning the Debenhams marketplace model as a blueprint for the broader business.
The leadership change follows a period of strong trading momentum for the group. In January, Debenhams Group said it was performing ahead of expectations and upgraded its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance for FY26, increasing it from £45m to £50m.
That was followed in February by a £40m fundraise, which the business said would support further growth and investment.
Finley said: “Richard has been part of Debenhams for over two decades and has been instrumental in helping to reshape the business into the modern, digital retailer it is today.
“He has a deep understanding of the brand, the marketplace model that underpins its growth, and has a clear vision for where we are going next.
“While Debenhams has already made significant progress, we’re just getting started. Richard’s leadership will be key to supercharging the brand and delivering the next stage of growth.”
Vanoli said: “I joined Debenhams at 19 and have spent my career with the business, so I’ve seen first-hand how much the brand has evolved, from its heritage on the high street to where we are today as a leading online department store.
“As one of Britain’s most loved retail brands, with a history spanning more than 240 years and roots as the country’s first department store, Debenhams has always held a special place with customers.
“What’s always been consistent is its relevance. We’ve built a strong, growing business with real momentum, and I firmly believe the best years are still ahead. I’m excited to lead the next phase, building on everything the team has achieved and continuing to grow the brand for the future.”
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