The Co-operative Group has reshuffled its regional store directors following the retirement of long-serving Co-op veteran Peter Rowley.

Rowley, who has worked for the society for 39 years, steps down as regional stores director for the North West. He will be replaced by Gwynneth Smedley who moves across from heading the Central and Eastern region. As North West head, Smedley will manage 484 stores and around 7,500 staff.

Derek Furnival, regional operations manager for the North West, will replace Smedley.

“Both Gwynneth and Derek have a wealth of experience and they will play a key role in supporting our continuing development as the UK’s leading community retailer,” said David Mockford, director of food stores and logistics for The Co-operative Group. “I would also like to thank Peter for the many years he has spent with The Co-op and the significant contribution he has made in that time and wish him well in his retirement.”

Rowley joined the society in 1973 as a trainee store manager. He progressed through the ranks to hold the roles of operations manager, regional operations manager, regional stores director for Central and Eastern, and then the North West.

“I’ve seen so many changes over the years, especially the group’s phenomenal growth to become a major player in the food retail industry,” he said.

“It’s been a challenging but enjoyable time at and I am proud of everything that has been achieved.”

Topics