Debenhams promotes from within to appoint new chief technology officer

Aspden joined the Boohoo and PrettyLittleThing owner in 2023 as its director of technology, responsible for developing and scaling its proprietary technology ecosystem that underpins its marketplace model.

In his new role, he will focus on scaling Debenhams’ technology platform, with continued enhancements to make brand partner onboarding and management faster, smarter, and more seamless.

Aspden will help drive innovation across the group, including the expanded use of AI to enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, and customer experience.

The news follows the appointment of Nikki Tattersall as chief product officer, which the group announced last week, and who will lead product strategy for its youth brands.

Debenhams Group chief executive Dan Finley said: “Having worked closely with Paul for the last 12 years, what’s always stood out to me is the way he combines strong, technological expertise and leadership with real commercial impact. 

“He has been instrumental in advancing the technology that underpins our marketplace model, while introducing AI-driven innovations that have supercharged both the customer experience and our operational efficiency.

“Technology has fundamentally transformed how we run the business, from stock and pricing management to how customers shop with us every day. The focus now is on scaling these capabilities further, and Paul’s leadership will be central to making that happen.”

Aspden added: “I’m incredibly proud to step into the role of chief technology officer. Since I joined the business, the group has undergone a significant transformation, cementing its position as a leading online retailer while pioneering some of the most exciting innovations in the industry.

“There is a significant opportunity to go further – from scaling our platform and marketplace model, to embedding AI more deeply across the business and further enhancing how customers discover, explore, and shop with us. I’m looking forward to working with the team to make the group an even more dynamic place to shop and do business with.”