Debenhams has promoted Peter Swann from director of information systems to the new role of operations director, where he will be responsible for logistics and imports in addition to his current responsibilities for IT and Systems.
Debenhams now has 240 stores across 28 countries and is the tenth biggest UK online retailer by traffic volume.
Chief executive Michael Sharp said: “As we continue to evolve our business into a true multi-channel international organisation, achieving operational excellence has become increasingly important. I am therefore delighted that Peter has agreed to take on the new role of operations director. Peter has made a huge impact on the organisation since joining us 11 months ago and I am very confident that in this new position he will continue to do so.”
Swan will join the company’s executive committee led by Sharp and consisting of Simon Herrick, chief financial officer; Suzanne Harlow, group trading director; Mike Goring, retail director; Richard Cristofoli, marketing director; and Nikki Zamblera, HR director.
Swann joined Debenhams as director of information systems in 2012, having previously been group IT director at WH Smith for eight years. Prior to this role, he was head of systems for Smiths News for four years where he was involved in the facilitation of the potential sale of WH Smith News Business, along with formulating and implementing a new IT strategy. Before WH Smith, he worked at Marks & Spencer for ten years in a variety of roles, with his last role being head of corporate IT and chief systems architect.
