5 Sep 2011 07:00
5 September 2011
DEBENHAMS PLC: DIRECTORATE CHANGE
Michael Sharp has today been appointed Chief Executive of Debenhams plc, the leading UK department stores group. As announced in April 2011, Rob Templeman retired from his role of Chief Executive and from the board on 4 September 2011.
Nigel Northridge, Chairman of Debenhams, said:
"The board is delighted that Michael Sharp has succeeded Rob Templeman as Chief Executive of Debenhams. Michael is a highly talented executive whose commitment to and knowledge of our business are second to none. He has played a key role in managing the business at the highest level as Deputy Chief Executive for the past three years and we very much look forward to Debenhams' future under his leadership."
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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
Debenhams plc
Lisa Williams 020 7408 3304, 07908 483841
Financial Dynamics
Jonathon Brill 020 7269 7170
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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 & 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 169 stores in the UK, the Republic of Ireland and Denmark as well as 64 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.