Former chief executive at Morrisons dies
BOB STOTT, a former senior executive of Morrisons, has died aged 73 leaving behind his wife, Margaret, two children and six grandchildren.
Mr Stott was named chief executive of the Bradford-based chain in 2005. Prior to his appointment he had been joint-managing director, and was widely considered one of Sir Ken Morrison’s right-hand men.
Huddersfield-born Mr Stott spent a combined three decades at the supermarket, helping Sir Ken build the business up to the point at which it took over Safeway in a £3bn deal in 2003. At one point six bidders were vying for Safeway, including Asda, Sainsbury’s and Tesco.
Mr Stott worked for Mars and Hillards in his spells away from Morrisons.
Following his departure from Morrisons in 2006, Mr Stott held non-executive roles at Leeds Building Society, Rugby Football League between 2007 and 2015, and Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
In addition he held roles at the Greyhound Board for Great Britain and bakery group Frank Roberts and Sons.
Morrisons chief executive David Potts said in a statement : “Bob joined Morrisons in 1973 and gave more than 30 years long and loyal service to the company, making a significant contribution to the growth of the business. Our thoughts and condolences are very much with his family at this time.”
Chairman of the RFL, Brian Barwick, said: “Bob was an important and well respected member of the RFL Board. His judgement, wisdom and decency shone through both in his decision making and discussions with other Board Members.
“He loved the game of Rugby League and he served the sport with passion and pride. He will be missed by all at the RFL and our sympathies are with his wife Margaret, his family and friends at this time.”
