Debenhams director of stores, technology and supply chain Angela Morrison is to leave the department store group.
Her departure, after three years in post, came as part of Debenhams adoption of a “leaner, more effective management structure” as chief executive Stefaan Vansteenkiste pushes ahead with turnaround efforts following the retailer’s administration last year, when lenders took control.
Vansteenkiste and Debenhams chief financial officer Mike Hazell will split Morrison’s duties.
In a note to Debenhams suppliers seen by Retail Week, Vansteenkiste said: “I will be taking direct responsibility for our store and supply chain operations and Mike Hazell will be assuming responsibility for our IT and systems. We thank [Angela] for her significant contribution in the three years she has been here and wish her well in the future.
“We look forward to updating you in due course on our progress and plans for Debenhams. In the meantime, thank you for your continuing support.”
Before joining Debenhams Morrison had for retailers including Sainsbury’s, Asda and its parent Walmart, and had been chief information officer at Direct Line.
Separately, Debenhams is reportedly preparing for a showdown over business rates which could affect store closures.
Debenhams is preparing for talks with councils and will signal that a refusal to cut rates bills could threaten their local Debenhams branches, Sky News reported.
Sources told Sky that councils’ willingness to agree to reductions would help in deciding the locations of 28 further shops which will be shut by the end of next year.
No comments yet