Manchester-headquartered Co-op Group has announced that its Group CEO, Steve Murrells, will step down following this year’s annual general meeting (AGM) in May.
The Board has chosen to appoint Shirine Khoury-Haq, Group CFO and CEO of Co-op Life Services, as its Interim Group CEO. When she takes up the new role in May, she will also become the company’s first female group CEO.
Co-op CEO Steve Murrells said: “It is important to put a clear CEO succession plan in place. This is especially the case as we begin the process to appoint a new Chairman. In such circumstances I would either have needed to commit for another 5 years or step down now to allow a new CEO to become established and allow a smooth transition to occur, ahead of a new Chairman arriving. I have therefore chosen to take that step now.”
“I have had 10 wonderful years at the Co-op and am very proud of all that we have achieved and how we’ve shown that a purpose-led organisation, focussed on a strong vision of fairness and values can make such a difference. Thanks to our amazing colleagues, we have been there for millions of members and customers when they have needed us the most.”
Shirine Khoury-Haq added: “I am proud to be part of a wonderful organisation that contributes so much to our communities and our country. We have lots to do and I am looking forward to working with my 60,000 colleagues, Allan and our Board to continue to make the Co-op a special place to work while providing great products and services to our customers and members.”
