Leadership of largest independent co-operative Society confirmed

• Elaine Dean elected as President of Transitional Board

• Debbie Robinson appointed as CEO; with Phil Ponsonby as CEO for Integration

The leadership team for the new Society being created by Central Co-op and Midcounties Cooperative has been confirmed, marking a significant milestone in forming what will become the UK’s largest independent co-operative.

Elaine Dean, currently President of Central Co-op, will become President of the new Society. Elaine will be supported by two Vice Presidents: Irene Kirkman, currently President of Midcounties, and Richard Bickle, currently Vice President of Central Co-op.

Together, they will lead a Transitional Board composed of Directors from both Societies. All appointments take effect on 26 January 2026, when the legal process to create the new Society completes.

The Transitional Board has also appointed Debbie Robinson as CEO of the new Society. As CEO, Debbie will lead the creation of the Society and ensure it delivers the outcomes and opportunities that Members have supported.  

Phil Ponsonby will take on the role of CEO for Integration, overseeing the programme of work required to bring the two Societies together and ensure a smooth transition, reporting directly to the CEO in this role.

Elaine Dean, President, said: “I am honoured to take on the role of President of our new Society. 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.”

Irene Kirkman, Vice President in the new Society 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.”

Debbie Robinson, Chief Executive Officer, 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.”

Phil Ponsonby, CEO for Integration 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.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

Interim Board members

• Elaine Dean (President)
• Irene Kirkman (Vice President)
• Richard Bickle (Vice President)
• Ornella Akichi
• Jane Avery
• Marc Bicknell (INED)
• Becci Britland
• Bob Burlton
• Ellie Boyle
• Bernadette Connor
• Maryann Denfhy
• Amanda Gallie
• Maria Lee
• Paul Mather
• Sue Rushton
• Brad Tuckfield
• Val Watson
• Helen Wiseman
• Janson Woodall
• Vivian Woodell

The Transitional Board will remain in place until Member elections are held in early 2027.