Manchester-based Co-op confirmed on Tuesday that Shirine Khoury-Haq has been appointed as group CEO on a permanent basis.  

Co-op appointed Khoury-Haq, formerly group CFO and CEO of Co-op Life Services, as its interim group CEO in March. 

Co-op chair Allan Leighton said: “I’m delighted that Shirine has accepted the invitation to lead and develop our Co-op into the future, tackling the challenges presented by the highly uncertain and volatile external environment.       

“Shirine has proven leadership qualities and a deep level of transformational experience, and the board has been impressed by her desire to prioritise on activity that will deliver a strong financial Co-op for our members, whilst maintaining a focus on our vision and wider social commitments.”     

Khoury-Haq said; “I am proud and honoured to lead this wonderful and unique organisation.

“The Co-op is the original business with purpose and I am looking forward to delivering even more on this promise, working to co-operate for a fairer world.

“There is a lot to do but we also have so much to build upon. 

“Our Food and Life Services businesses are leaders in their markets, we have a differentiated vision and amazing Co-op colleagues, with links into communities and other co-operatives.

“Together, we will continue to succeed and deliver for the benefit of our members, our customers and their communities.”