THE boss of Debenhams will leave the company following its pre-pack administration, it has been announced.

Chief executive Sergio Bucher is to step down this week, just under two years since he joined the high street retailer in May 2016.

Chairman Terry Duddy will take the reins in the interim as executive chairman, while a search for a new CEO is conducted. It comes after Debenhams was placed into a pre-pack administration which wiped out the holdings of all investors, including Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct, and put it into the hands of lenders.

The process will see the department store’s debt reduced and comes ahead of a wider restructuring which will see around 50 stores close.

READ MORE: M&S chief hits out at Mike Ashley over plans to buy Debenhams

It also cleared the way for a £200 million refinancing plan, announced in March, to go ahead. Debenhams said Bucher’s departure would allow new leadership to oversee the restructuring and turnaround of the business.

Duddy said: “Debenhams now has a clear path towards a viable and sustainable future and we have Sergio and his team to thank for that.

“With a positive, professional approach, he has acted at all times in the company’s best interests, and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Bucher joined from Amazon two years ago, where he ran the tech giant’s European fashion business.

He said: “Now that our new financing facilities are in place, it is time to move on, knowing the company is in good hands with a plan that will deliver a sustainable future.

“I would like to wholeheartedly thank all of my colleagues for their efforts and dedication during such a turbulent time, as well as our suppliers, partners and of course customers for their continued support.”

Bucher had already been forced off the retailer’s board after Mike Ashley staged a coup which ousted him in January.