Having already launched his Debenhams Redesigned transformation strategy, the department store’s new boss Sergio Bucher is now setting about reshaping its board.
Suzanne Harlow, a 23-year veteran of the business, is leaving her position as trading director – a role that has been axed from its main board.
Symbolically, the move could mark the start of a new dawn for Debenhams as a member of its old guard prepares to depart.
Bucher has already revealed his vision for “social shopping”, lifting the lid on his first new store in Stevenage, but now he is setting up three distinct business divisions in a bid to rejuvenate the retailer’s fortunes.
A different member of the executive committee will take responsibility for fashion and home, beauty and beauty services, and food and events.
That should breed greater levels of focus – and boost Bucher’s turnaround hopes in the process.
Elsewhere today, troubles emerged at two international businesses, with news that Topshop’s New Zealand arm is entering receivership and Toys R Us is exploring restructuring options.
But there was better news for Koovs, whose full-year sales rocketed as it targets turning a profit by 2020.
Today in numbers
58%
The spike in sales delivered by Koovs in the year to March 31.
2015
The year in which Toys R Us restructured its European business.
Tomorrow’s agenda
With no financial updates scheduled tomorrow, check out our latest episode of The Retail Week as we analyse the biggest stories from the last seven days.
Luke Tugby, head of content
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