Martyn Cheatle has been named as the new CEO of Midlands Co-operative Society after its CEO John Fitzgerald announced his retirement.

Cheatle moves up from the role of deputy CEO. He joined Midlands in 2001 and has previously worked as finance director for Gala Leisure and as financial controller for Bass Brewers.

“I feel privileged to succeed John Fitzgerald and have enjoyed working alongside him during the last eight years,” Cheatle said. “Much of the society’s success can be attributed to Fitzgerald’s leadership, forward thinking and sound management.”

Fitzgerald has worked for the co-operative movement for the past 25 years. He worked for Oxford and Swindon Society, before joining Midlands in 1998 as retail general manager. He was promoted to chief general manager in 2001 and CEO in 2005.