14 Apr 2011 07:01
14 April 2011
DEBENHAMS PLC
BOARD SUCCESSION PLAN
Rob Templeman has informed the board of Debenhams plc that he wishes to retire after eight years' service as Chief Executive. The board is therefore implementing its agreed succession plan.
Rob will step down from the board at the end of the current financial year, thereby ensuring a seamless transition to Michael Sharp who will assume the role of Chief Executive from 5 September 2011, having been Deputy Chief Executive since November 2008. Rob will remain involved with the business as a consultant for up to one year after his retirement.
Nigel Northridge, Chairman of Debenhams plc, said:
"Rob Templeman has made a huge contribution to Debenhams over the past eight years and the board is grateful for the leadership he continues to show. We are delighted that Michael Sharp will succeed Rob as Chief Executive which will ensure continuity of management and strategy. Michael's commitment to and knowledge of Debenhams are second to none and he has played a key role in managing the business at the highest level as Deputy Chief Executive. Rob will continue to lead the business until the end of the financial year and will be available to Michael and the board in a consultancy role for another year after that."
Rob Templeman said:
"Michael and I have worked together extremely closely for eight years and I know that he has the talent and experience to lead Debenhams forward. I will remain fully engaged in managing the business until I pass on the baton to Michael in September and look forward to continuing my involvement for another year after that as Michael and the board see fit."
- Ends -
About Michael Sharp
Michael Sharp (54) was appointed Deputy Chief Executive of Debenhams plc in November 2008. Michael has worked for Debenhams or its predecessor The Burton Group since 1985.
Michael has spent his entire career in retail. In 1985 he joined the Burton Group where he held positions as Buying & Merchandising Controller at Top Man and Burton menswear, Buying & Merchandising Director at Top Man, Topshop and Debenhams' womenswear. In 1996, Michael became Managing Director of Principles and Managing Director of Racing Green the following year. In 1997, Michael became Group Trading Director of Debenhams Limited and in 2004 was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Debenhams Limited and subsequently Debenhams plc.
Enquiries
Investors and Analysts
Lisa Williams, Debenhams plc 020 7408 3304, 07908 483841
Media
Jonathon Brill, Financial Dynamics 020 7269 7170
Notes to Editors
Debenhams is an iconic British department store group which was established over 200 years ago. Debenhams has a strong presence in key product categories including womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, home and health and beauty and offers its customers a unique and differentiated mix of exclusive own bought brands including Designers at Debenhams, international brands and concessions.
Debenhams has 167 stores in the UK, the Republic of Ireland and Denmark as well as 62 international franchise stores in 25 countries. Debenhams products are also available online at www.debenhams.com and www.debenhams.ie and through iPhone, Android and Nokia apps.
Designers at Debenhams include Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Erickson Beamon, FrostFrench, Henry Holland, Roksanda Ilincic, Betty Jackson, Jonathan Kelsey, Ben de Lisi, Julien Macdonald, Melissa Odabash, Jane Packer, Pearce Fionda, Preen, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Jonathan Saunders, Lisa Stickley, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.