Central England Co-operative appoints new trading executive

Central England Co–operative has announced the appointment of Matt Birch as the Society’s trading executive; a vacancy created due to Tony Carroll, deputy chief and trading executive retiring later this year.

Matt joins from Sainsbury’s where he was recently director of commercial operations with responsibility for central trading activities and the convenience channel. He previously held director roles in finance and property and ran retail operations in the north west.

In his new role of trading executive at Central England Co–operative Matt will be responsible for all aspects of the Society’s diverse portfolio of businesses, including trading development, customer and marketing, food retail, funeralcare, travel and other specialist businesses.

Martyn Cheatle, chief executive said of the appointment: “Central England Co–operative is delighted to welcome Matt at a time of growth and development for our Society. We value the experience he brings with him and we are all looking forward to working together for a bright future for our colleagues and members”

Commenting on his new role Matt said: “I’m really excited to be joining Central England Co–operative where I can combine my retail experience in a growing and forward thinking environment, with my interests in community development and social investment. My role will be to ensure the future development and growth of an already highly successful Co-op.”

Matt also holds a non-executive role with Mersey Care NHS Trust, a specialist mental health trust with a strong focus on delivering for the communities and people it represents.