First female chief exec for Central England Co-op

Central England Co-operative has announced the appointment of Debbie Robinson as the Society’s new chief executive.

Robinson takes over from Martyn Cheatle, who announced he is set to retire in May 2019. She will be the Society’s first-ever female boss.

Robinson has held directorships for food retailers specialising in store innovation, brand strategy and global development and joins the Society from SPAR where she has been UK managing director since 2011. She has a strong background in retail, built up over 30 years with the likes of Co-op Group, Marks & Spencer and WHSmith among others.

Robinson said: “I am delighted to be joining a progressive and truly co-operative society. I look forward to building on the fantastic work Martyn has done and working with the team to ensure Central England Co-operative fulfils its ambitions and potential, making a real difference for our members and the communities we serve.”

Debbie added: “My vision for the future of Central England Co-operative is to grow sustainably and make the most of the Society’s key USP; our co-operative principles.”