Southern Co-op head of franchise Matt Turner is to step down from the business.
He has led the Welcome business, which consists of 77 stores run by independent retailers, since Mike Fitton retired in February.
Prior to this, Turner was head of funeral services at the society, a role he held for nearly three years.
His last day will be 9 October when Anuj Christi, currently Southern Co-op’s head of store operations, will take over.
“Matt Turner has decided to leave Southern Co-op and will depart the business in October,” said a Southern Co-op spokeswoman. ”We thank Matt for his contribution and support during his time with us and wish him every success in the future.
”We’re pleased to confirm that Anuj Christi will assume responsibility for our Welcome franchise business. With extensive operational experience and a strong knowledge of the organisation, we are confident they will provide continuity and ongoing support to our franchise partners.
”This leadership change does not affect our continued commitment to supporting our franchisees and their businesses.”
The new appointment comes as Southern Co-op recently merged with Co-op Group after a majority vote by members in May. Before the voting commenced, the board of Southern Co-op had warned the society would “most likely” go into administration if members voted against the merger.
The society has now transferred to a wholly owned subsidiary of Co-op Group called Siena Co-op, meaning Southern Co-op is now legally part of the wider Co-op Group structure.
The transaction, however, remains subject to approval from the Competition & Markets Authority. Its review is expected to complete by early October.
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