Co-op Group CEO Steve Murrells to step down at AGM
News item
Shirine Khoury-Haq has been named Interim Group CEO after it was announced that current CEO, Steve Murrells, will step down later this year.
Steve Murrells, CEO of Co-op Group, will step down in May following the organisation's annual general meeting (AGM).
Co-op Group's Board has chosen to appoint Shirine Khoury-Haq, Group CFO and CEO of Co-op Life Services, as its Interim Group 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 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, 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.”
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.”
Rose Marley, Co-operatives UK CEO, said: "Steve Murrells has led Co-op Group by its co-operative values. Group is truly embedded in the communities in which it operates and is a leading light in campaigning for social justice.
"From the campaign against modern slavery to the recent focus on improving shopworkers' rights, the UK's biggest co-operative has absolutely made an impact with Steve at its helm.
"Steve’s support for Co-operatives UK, especially since I became CEO a little over a year ago, has been incredible and I'm truly thankful for all of his insight and personal support during that time.
"Co-operatives UK is directly aligned to Co-op Group in our aim to build a strong, diverse and sustainable movement. As we look to the future it's really exciting to see Shirine Khoury-Haq named as Interim Group CEO. We look forward to further strengthening our excellent relations with Co-op Group and working together to achieve our shared vision."
Allan Leighton Chair of Co-op 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.
“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.”