Debbie Robinson has been confirmed as chief executive of the new society formed through the merger of Central Co-op and Midcounties Co-op.
Robinson, who currently heads up Central Co-op as chief executive, will lead the creation of the new society and ensure it delivers the outcomes and opportunities that members have supported.
Elaine Dean, currently president of Central Co-op, has been announced as the president of what will become the UK’s largest independent co-operative.
Dean will be supported by two vice presidents: Irene Kirkman, currently president of Midcounties, and Richard Bickle, currently vice president of Central Co-op. Together, they will lead a transitional board composed of directors from both societies.
Phil Ponsonby, group chief executive of Midcounties Co-op, will take on the role of chief executive for integration, overseeing the programme of work required to bring the two societies together and ensure a smooth transition, reporting directly to Robinson.
All appointments will take effect on 26 January 2026, when the legal process to create the new Society completes.
Commenting on her new role, Robinson said: ”Creating our new Society is an enormously exciting opportunity. I am honoured to have been asked by the Board to take on the role of CEO and to help shape the future of a truly modern co-operative.
”The work to integrate our two organisations is already underway and I am delighted to have Phil’s continued support through this next phase. By creating a new Society , we can build an organisation that is stronger, more resilient and able to deliver even greater impact.”
Dean said: “I am honoured to take on the role of President of our new Society. The decision to bring together our two fantastic Societies has been led by our Members and the high levels of engagement and support throughout this process is a testament to the power of co-operation. I look forward to working with the Board, Debbie and Phil to seize this historic opportunity and deliver even more for our Members and the communities we serve.”
Ponsonby added: “Debbie and I have worked closely together, alongside our Boards, throughout this process and share a clear vision for what our new Society can achieve. As CEO for Integration, I look forward to helping ensure colleagues and Members remain at the heart of every decision we make as we create our new Society.”
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