Co-operative Food hires Michael Fletcher as trading director
The Co-operative Food has strengthened its management team with the appointment of former Tesco executive Michael Fletcher as trading director.
Fletcher worked with Tesco for 22 years where his roles included commercial director for the supermarket’s business in Malaysia and, most recently, commercial director for group procurement.
Commenting on the appointment, The Co-operative Group’s chief executive for retail Steve Murrells said: “This is an exciting time for The Co-operative as we embark on a new long-term strategic plan to drive the business forward.
“Our initial focus on doing the basics better is already paying dividends in terms of sales, and these appointments bring a wealth of new experience and leadership to help maintain this momentum. The new appointments will be instrumental in delivering our long-term strategy, and will help shape the future direction of The Co-operative Food.”
In an additional appointment, Ian Ayling has taken up the role of customer change director within the food executive team. Ayling had been working with the retailer as a marketing consultant, having previously worked at Dunhumby as general manager France. In his new role, Ayling will report to customer director Andrew Mann who recently joined The Co-operative from Sainsbury’s where he was director of insight and loyalty.
