Central England Co-op has appointed its first ever female chief executive to oversee the society, which includes 26 travel agencies.
Debbie Robinson starts in the role in spring next year. She takes over from Martyn Cheatle, who retires in May 2019.
Robinson joins from SPAR where she UK managing director. Prior to this she was director of food marketing at the Co-operative Group. She has also previously held senior roles at WHSmith and Marks & Spencer.
Central England Co-operative is one of the largest independent retail co-operative societies in the UK, employing more than 8,000 people. It has more than 400 trading outlets across the UK, including 26 travel agencies.
The society recently acquired six branches from Thomas Cook, which were transferred across last month.
In her new role Robinson will be responsible for developing the strategic and commercial direction of the whole society, including travel.
Elaine Dean, society president, said: “Debbie is no stranger to co-operative ethics and values, having previous experience at a senior level within the co-operative movement. She has a sound track record of success and is highly respected in the retail sector.”
She added: “This is the first time in the society’s history that we have had a female chief executive and the board is confident in her ability to take us forward as a dynamic and independent co-operative society. We look forward to working with Debbie as we build on our strong foundations and plan for the future.”
Departing chief executive Martyn Cheatle said: “I am incredibly proud of the Society and our colleagues, all of whom have contributed to the continued success Central England Co-operative has worked so hard to achieve in the time I have been chief executive. I wish Debbie all the very best for her future with the best independent retail Co-operative in the UK.”
Robinson said her aim was for the society to grow ‘sustainably’ and make the most of its co-operative principles.
She said: “I am delighted to be joining a progressive and truly co-operative society. I look forward to building on the fantastic work Martyn has done and working with the team to ensure Central England Co-operative fulfils its ambitions and potential, making a real difference for our members and the communities we serve.”
Robinson also sits on the boards of the Association of Convenience Stores and the British Retail Consortium.