Morrisons chief operating officer Trevor Strain steps down

The grocer’s chief executive David Potts said he was saddened by Strain’s decision to leave the business after 13 years, but wished him all the best in the future. 

“Trevor has played a pivotal role in the turnaround of Morrisons and his contribution to the business over many years has been very significant,” he said.

“I have worked very closely with him since my first day at Morrisons and his ability to plan and execute complex change and progression at great pace has been invaluable.

“Although I am sad that Trevor has decided to leave, I understand and respect his decision. The central role he played during Morrisons’ performance in the pandemic will be an appropriate and enduring legacy. I know I speak for the whole company when I thank him for the huge difference he has made and wish him well for the future.”

Strain said he was looking forward to a new challenge, but did not confirm where that would be. 

“This has been a very difficult decision for me, but I believe if I am to take on a new challenge for the next few years then it would be better to make that change at the start of the Morrisons journey in private equity, and not in the middle of it. 

“The pandemic was an incredibly difficult time for everyone, but the way Morrisons rose to that challenge, fed the nation and made sure no one was left behind fills me with pride. I wish David and the whole business the greatest success for the future.”

Strain joined Morrisons in 2009 as commercial and operations finance director, and in 2013 joined the board as chief financial officer. In 2019 he was appointed chief operating officer.

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