Co-op chief executive Steve Murrells to step down in May

No comments

The Co-op chief executive Steve Murrells is stepping down after 10 years with the business.

Steve Murrells Co-op

Murrells will exit the mutual following its AGM in May and will be succeeded as interim group chief executive by current group finance chief and group life services boss Shirine Khoury-Haq.

The shock news of Murrells’ departure comes less than two months after Co-op Food boss Jo Whitfield revealed she was taking a four-month career break from May to support her sons through their exams.

The Co-op said at that time that Murrells would take over day-to-day responsibility for its convenience food division during Whitfield’s period of absence.

It is unclear who will now step into Whitfield’s shoes at the helm of the food business during her leave.

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 chair.

“In such circumstances, I would either have needed to commit for another five years or step down now to allow a new CEO to become established and allow a smooth transition to occur, ahead of a new chair 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, focused 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.”

Murrells joined the Co-op as the boss of its food division in July 2012 and was a key part of the leadership team that transformed the business under former chief executive Richard Pennycook.

Murrells succeeded Pennycook five years ago and has overseen further innovation by driving the Co-op’s membership scheme, launching an ecommerce grocery business and partnering with the likes of Starship Technologies to trial food delivery by robot.

Co-op chair Allan Leighton said: “Steve’s decision will ensure the transitioning of both chair and CEO will take place seamlessly. Steve has done a tremendous job at the Co-op in his 10 years of tenure and has been at the forefront of our transition. He is a top-class leader and person and his legacy in the Co-op is firmly embedded.”

Khoury-Haq said: “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.”