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# Leadership team confirmed following co-op merger agreement
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/leadership-team-confirmed-following-co-op-merger-agreement/
- Published: 2025-12-15T08:03:00.000Z
- Updated: 2025-12-15T07:21:52.000Z
- Description: The leadership team for a new society being created by a merger involving a Lichfield business has been confirmed.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Business, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 18:45, News

THE leadership team for a new society being created by a merger involving a Lichfield business has been confirmed.

Central Co-op and Midcounties Cooperative members have agreed the link-up which will see the formation of the UK’s largest independent co-operative group.

Elaine Dean, currently president of Central Co-op, will become president of the new society. She will be supported by vice presidents – Irene Kirkman and Richard Bickle.

From 26th January they will lead a transitional board composed of directors from both societies.

Debbie Robinson will be CEO of the new society, while Phil Ponsoby will be CEo for integration.

Debbie 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 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.”