Online retail group Debenhams has appointed a managing director of its eponymous brand to accelerate growth at the flagship division, Retail Week can reveal.
Debenhams Group has promoted Richard Vanoli to the role. He has worked at Debenhams since he was 19, joining the retailer 25 years ago in its original incarnation as a primarily bricks-and-mortar department store business.
He was most recently chief commercial officer of Debenhams Group – formerly Boohoo, which also owns Karen Millen and PrettyLittleThing and bought Debenhams out of administration in 2021 – which said he has played a key part in the brand’s “evolution into a leading online business”.
In his new post, Vanoli will report to Debenhams Group chief executive Dan Finley and “focus on accelerating growth further – expanding the marketplace, strengthening brand partnerships and continuing to invest in technology to enhance the customer experience”.
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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