Odeon boss Carol Welch is to become AF Blakemore’s new CEO.
Currently the cinema giant’s MD for UK and Ireland, and Europe commercial officer, Welch will be joining the Spar business in April.
Over the past six years, her prime focus has been on transforming Odeon’s customer and colleague experience.
Welch introduced Luxe recliner cinemas, new digital systems, and more efficient operating models.
As part of her role as Odeon’s Europe commercial officer, she has overseen growth of commercial revenues across nine European markets and navigated the business through the pandemic.
Previous to Odeon, Welch had held roles across various food and drink, retail, and foodservice brands, including Costa Coffee, Associated British Foods, Cadbury-Schweppes, and PepsiCo. She is also a non-executive director at Hammerson.
“I am thrilled to be joining AF Blakemore as CEO,” said Welch. “It is a fantastic business with a deep understanding of retail, wholesale and foodservice and an enviable values-led culture, fuelled by more than 7,000 colleagues and partners who are passionate about delivering great food and drink solutions.
“I’m excited to be working with the shareholders and team to deliver their business ambition.”
She will be succeeding Jerry Marwood, who is leaving to focus more time on his non-executive directorships and consultancy roles.
Marwood said: “I’ve had a fabulous time at AFB and had the privilege of working with an outstanding group of people. Together we have proven that a privately owned family business can succeed in one of the most competitive markets in the UK and still uphold core values that make us all proud to be part of the team.
“Carol is a great recruit and clearly demonstrates our shareholders’ ambition for the future.”
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