Co-op chief executive Steve Murrells to step down as interim successor named

The group chief executive of the Co-op is to step down in May, it has been announced.

Steve Murrells will leave his role with the Manchester-headquartered company after its annual general meeting.

Group CFO and CEO of Co-op Life Services Shirine Khoury-Haq will become interim group CEO until a permanent successor is appointed.

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Mr Murrells had been due to assume day-to-day control of Co-op Food from May with CEO Jo Whitfield taking a career break to help her sons through their exams.

He 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 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 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.”

Mr Murrells first joined The Co-op in 2012 as retail chief executive before being promoted in March 2017.

He was previously chief executive at Tulip and has also worked for Tesco and T&S Stores.

Chairman Allan Leighton added: “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.

“Shirine has excellent leadership skills and a deep level of operational experience, gained globally across a number of sectors. She understands our Co-op and I and the rest of the board, look forward to working closely with her going forward.”

Shirine 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.”