Debenhams Group appoints new non-exec director in board shuffle

Debenhams Group has announced the appointment of Tom Handley to its board as an independent non-executive director, as senior board member Alistair McGeorge has stepped down with immediate effect. 

A director at Provenio Law, Handley has previously served as chief executive of Exchange Chambers for 28 years, having joined in 1992. At Debenhams, he will sit on the audit and risk, remuneration and nomination committees. 

McGeorge, who joined the board in March 2023, has stepped down from his role as senior independent director and independent non-executive director. He also served as deputy chairman until November 2024. His responsibilities will now be taken on by non-executive director John Goold.

Tim Morris, non-executive chair of Debenhams, said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Alistair for his valuable contribution to Debenhams Group. His counsel as deputy chair and senior independent director has been particularly important, and the board has benefitted greatly from his significant retail and governance expertise.

“I am delighted to welcome Tom to the board. His governance expertise will be a great asset to the board and the business as it continues to develop and grow.”

Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams, added: “We extend our sincere thanks to Alistair for his service to Debenhams Group over the past few years. On behalf of everyone at Debenhams, we wish him every success for the future.

“At the same time, we are very pleased to welcome Tom to the board, and we look forward to benefiting from his considerable expertise.”