APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

28 July 2014

DEBENHAMS PLC

APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Debenhams plc, the leading international, multi-channel brand, is pleased to announce that

Matt Smith will join the board as Chief Financial Officer.

Matt has served as Chief Financial Officer of Mothercare plc since 2013. Prior to this, he held a number of senior finance roles within Home Retail Group plc including Finance Director of Argos. Matt is a chartered accountant and has also worked for KPMG in both London and Sydney.

Matt will join Debenhams upon the satisfaction of his existing contractual obligations.

Michael Sharp, Chief Executive of Debenhams, said: "We look forward to Matt joining Debenhams and to the benefits that his extensive experience of international and multi-channel retailing will bring to our business."

Nigel Northridge, Chairman of Debenhams, said: "I am delighted to welcome Matt to the board and am confident that his wealth of retail and financial expertise will allow him to make a significant contribution to Debenhams."

There is no information to disclose under LR 9.6.13R pertaining to this appointment.

- Ends -

Enquiries

Analysts and Investors

Lisa Williams, Debenhams plc 020 3549 6304, 07908 483841

Media

Simon Sporborg, Brunswick Group 020 7404 5959

Tim Danaher, Brunswick Group 020 7404 5959

NOTES TO EDITORS

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of 243 stores across 28 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Betty Jackson, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Pearce Fionda, Stephen Jones, Preen, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Jonathan Saunders, Ashley Thomas, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.