Co-op sheds senior roles in shake-up

SIX senior roles in The Co-operative Group’s food and group marketing business are being axed as part of a restructuring plan.

Among the posts – which are all based at the group’s Manchester head office – being cut are those of director of food retail marketing and director of food retail trading. The jobs are currently held by Debbie Robinson and David Messom respectively.

The reorganisation in the food business also sees Sean Toal, currently director of food retail operations, move to a new role of commercial director.

Tim Hurrell, managing director, food, said: “I would like to thank both Debbie and David for the valuable contributions they have both made to the business over a considerable period of time, which has led to a marked improvement in our business performance and customer offer.

“Sean’s appointment will ensure that we now take this momentum forward and secure our position as the premier community food retailer.“    
In the marketing department, four senior roles and eight in middle management are being lost. They include: head of brand; head of identity and standards development; head of brand communications and head of customer strategy.
The 100-strong marketing department will continue to be led by director of marketing Patrick Allen.
He said: “The changes announced today, whilst regrettable in the areas where individual roles are impacted, are nevertheless necessary to further support the Co-operative Group and ensure that business momentum is sustained.“