Spar has announced the appointment of two interim managing directors to succeed Debbie Robinson, who is set to take the helm at Central England Co-operative.

Chris Lewis and Jackie Mackenzie, both internal recruits, will succeed Robinson on an interim basis.

Lewis has been working with Spar for 19 years and has worked on a number of projects in recent years, including a new purchasing strategy.

Mackenzie joined Spar in 2016 as chief information officer (CIO) and has subsequently taken on the responsibility for central HR, legal and governance issues.

Martin Agnew, Spar UK chairman, said: “Chris and Jackie have spent a lot of time with the SFD Board over the last 18 months, and their interim roles will enable the continuity and development of our strategy, which has proven successful in driving profitable growth.

“For the meantime, we are working with a search firm to assist us with finding a permanent successor.”

Debbie Robinson will replace Martyn Cheatle as chief executive as Central England Co-op when he retires in May.