The Co-op has announced a new executive structure for its convenience and wholesale operations, as Jo Whitfield leaves the role of Food CEO after 5 years. 

Co-op chair Allan Leighton said Whitfield has “led a re-invention” of Co-op’s food business and “championed” colleague safety.

Former commercial director Matt Hood will become managing director of Co-op Food and will be responsible for both the commercial and operational areas of the business.

Michael Fletcher, who manages the company’s wholesale brand Nisa, is also stepping down from his role in early October. Former managing director of Co-op’s Southern region stores Peter Batt has been appointed managing director of Nisa.

New beginnings

Co-op CEO Shirine Khoury-Haq said that she is “delighted” to announce Hood’s appointment. She added: “He will ensure we remain leaders in convenience. We have an incredibly strong team, an established position to build from and the hunger and opportunity to achieve so much more in the years ahead.”

Commenting on Batt’s appointment as managing director of Nisa, Khoury-Haq said: “Peter has extensive experience in retail and trading, having been our divisional managing director in the South, and brings with him both commercial and operational experience from his roles outside of Co-op.

“I have the upmost confidence that Peter will hit the ground running to support our Nisa partners.”