Debenhams Group has appointed longtime staffer Richard Vanoli as managing director of Debenhams, as the reborn brand continues to strengthen its position as “Britain’s leading online department store.”
Vanoli brings more than 25 years of experience with Debenhams, having joined the business at just 17. He has built his career with the brand, starting out in allocation (stock distribution), through to senior leadership, experiencing first-hand its prominence on the high street and playing a central role in its evolution into a leading online business.
Most recently chief commercial officer of Debenhams Group, Vanoli has been instrumental in driving the brand’s turnaround and commercial strategy. In his new role, he will report into Debenhams Group CEO Dan Finley and focus on accelerating growth further – expanding the marketplace, strengthening brand partnerships, and continuing to invest in technology to enhance the customer experience.
READ MORE: Steven Bartlett-backed nutrition brand to be sold in $1bn Danone deal
Following its acquisition out of administration in 2021, Debenhams has rebuilt as a digital-first business and is now a fast-growing, profitable online department store. Offering customers an extensive range across fashion, beauty and home, it now works with over 20,000 brand partners and serves millions of customers.
This transformation has made Debenhams a standout retail revival story, with the strength of the brand reflected in the wider, formerly boohoo, group’s decision to reposition itself as Debenhams Group, using the Debenhams marketplace model as the blueprint for the whole group’s transformation.
The appointment comes as Debenhams Group continues to build momentum. In January 2026, the Group announced that it was trading above expectations and upgraded its full-year Adjusted EBITDA guidance for FY26 (to 28th February 2026) from £45m to £50m. This was followed by an oversubscribed £40m fundraise in February to support further growth and investment.
Group CEO Finley said: “Richard has been part of Debenhams for over two decades and has been instrumental in helping to reshape the business into the modern, digital retailer it is today. He has a deep understanding of the brand, the marketplace model that underpins its growth, and has a clear vision for where we are going next…Richard’s leadership will be key to supercharging the brand and delivering the next stage of growth.”
Vanoli added: “I joined Debenhams at 19 and have spent my career with the business, so I’ve seen first-hand how much the brand has evolved – from its heritage on the high street to where we are today as a leading online department store.
“As one of Britain’s most loved retail brands, with a history spanning more than 240 years and roots as the country’s first department store, Debenhams has always held a special place with customers. What’s always been consistent is its relevance. We’ve built a strong, growing business with real momentum, and I firmly believe the best years are still ahead. I’m excited to lead the next phase, building on everything the team has achieved and continuing to grow the brand for the future.”
