Nisa chief executive Michael Fletcher is to step down after nine months leading the wholesaler.

The change was announced on 21 September as part of a new leadership structure at Nisa’s parent company Co-op. Peter Batt, who formerly oversaw Co-op’s regional stores in the south, will take on the role as Nisa boss. Fletcher took over in January 2021 after his predecessor Ken Towle joined Asda as its retail director.

As part of the change, Co-op Food chief executive Jo Whitfield will also leave the company. She is to be replaced by Co-op commercial director Matt Hood.

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Shirine Khoury-Haq, CEO of Co-op, said: “Michael Fletcher will pursue a new career path, supporting multiple businesses. He leaves behind a huge legacy. 

“Peter Batt will take over from Michael with immediate effect to allow a managed handover with Michael. Peter has extensive experience in retail and trading, having been our divisional managing director in the South, and brings with him both commercial and operational experience from his roles outside of Co-op.  

“I have the upmost confidence that Peter will hit the ground running to support our Nisa partners.”

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