Debenhams has promoted director of information systems Peter Swann to the newly created role of operations director.

Swann will now add logistics and imports to his existing responsibilities for IT and systems and he will join the executive committee led by chief executive Michael Sharp.

Swann joined Debenhams 11 months ago from WHSmith where he was group IT director for eight years and also led the online operation.

Sharp said: “As we continue to evolve our business into a true multichannel international organisation, achieving operational excellence has become increasingly important.

“I am therefore delighted that Peter has agreed to take on the new role of operations director. Peter has made a huge impact on the organisation since joining us 11 months ago and I am very confident that in this new position he will continue to do so. “

The executive committee consists of chief financial officer Simon Herrick, group trading director Suzanne Harlow, retail director Mike Goring, marketing director Richard Cristofoli and HR director Nikki Zamblera.