The leadership team for the new society formed by merging Central Co-op and Midcounties has been confirmed, with Debbie Robinson set to become CEO.
Robinson, currently CEO of Central Co-op, will lead the creation of the society and ensure it delivers the outcomes and opportunities that members voted for.
Phil Ponsonby, CEO of Midcounties, will become CEO for integration, overseeing the programme to bring the two societies together and ensure a smooth transition. He will report directly to Robinson.
While the merger is due to formally complete in January, the integration process is expected to take two to three years, The Grocer understands.
These roles were appointed by the new transitional board composed of directors from both societies, including Elaine Dean, who is currently president of Central Co-op.
Dean will become president of the new society, supported by two vice presidents: Irene Kirkman, currently president of Midcounties, and Richard Bickle, currently vice president of Central Co-op.
All appointments will take effect on 26 January 2026, when the legal process to create the new society completes.
“I am honoured to take on the role of president of our new society,” said Dean. “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.”
Kirkman said: “It’s been encouraging to see such strong member support for our proposals. I’m pleased to be joining the new society board as vice president and to be working with Elaine and colleagues to build a stronger, more resilient society that delivers greater value for our members, communities and colleagues.”
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.”
Ponsonby said: “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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