Iain McDonald returns as chairman of Debenhams as retailer pushes ahead with its turnaround

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Iain McDonald has been appointed non-executive chairman of Debenhams Group, replacing Tim Morris in the role with immediate effect. The move signals a fresh push by the struggling retailer to revive its fortunes under returning leadership.

McDonald has previously held a senior role at Debenhams, making the appointment a deliberate return to familiar hands.

The appointment was announced to shareholders as part of a broader turnaround effort at the AIM-listed retailer.