The first woman chief executive of Central England Co-op started in the job today.
Debbie Robinson, former UK managing director of Spar UK, will oversee one of the largest independent retail co-operative societies in the UK, including 26 travel shops across 16 counties.
She was appointed in November last year and will be responsible for a business that has more than 8,000 staff and over 400 trading outlets.
Robinson is taking over from Martyn Cheatle who will be retiring in April after leading Central England Co-op since 2010.
Her 30-year career has included spells at Co-op Group, Marks & Spencer and WH Smith.
She also sits on the boards of the Association of Convenience Stores and the British Retail Consortium.
Robinson said: “I am looking forward to meeting colleagues across the Society and becoming a part of an organisation that genuinely makes a positive community impact.
“I am excited to be joining a progressive, forward-looking business.
“My vision for the future of Central England Co-op is to grow sustainably and make the most of the Society’s key USP; our co-operative values and principles.”
More: Central England Co-op appoints first female chief executive
