British department store chain Debenhams has appointed JD Sports veteran Daniel Finley as its new CEO. “After an incredible decade as Group Multi Channel Director at JD Sports Fashion Plc, I’ve decided it’s time to take on a new challenge,” Finley announced on LinkedIn.
“I am delighted to begin my new role as Managing Director of Debenhams following the company’s acquisition by the Boohoo Group last year. I am delighted to be taking over the leadership of a major British heritage brand and building on the progress the team has made since the acquisition.” Before joining JD Sports, Finley spent eight months as Group Business Development Director at communications consultancy Peacock Group. Prior to that, he was an Associate Director at management consultancy Javelin Group for six years.
The acquisition of the Boohoo Group
The important appointment at Debenhams comes at a time of significant change at the department store chain, which was acquired by British fast fashion giant Boohoo Group for £55m last January. The acquisition included the British department store chain’s brand and website, but not its premises, which closed later in the year. The takeover followed years of struggle for Debenhams to keep up with online competition.
In June, Debenhams launched its first brand campaign under new ownership, repositioning itself as a digital destination for fashion, beauty and home. In December, the company returned with the Opening of a beauty flagship returned to brick-and-mortar retail at the Arndale shopping center in Manchester, Boohoo’s hometown.
This article was previously published on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Karenita Haalck