Lincolnshire Co-op announces two new executive leadership appointments
Lincolnshire Co-op has made two new appointments within its executive leadership team as it works to deliver its Purpose Beyond Profit 2030 business strategy.
Karen Bennett, currently senior director of people services at Asda, will join the society on 1 September as its new chief people officer.
Meanwhile, Andy Warman, who currently works as head of strategy and transformation at Lincolnshire Co-op, will be promoted to a newly-created role of chief transformation officer on 9 June.
Bennett began her career at Asda in 1998 as an hourly paid colleague while at university, before going onto the retail graduate programme. She then worked in both stores and area roles across the East Midlands and Yorkshire, before moving to the HR team and subsequently being appointed to her current position.
Never Miss a Retail Update!In her new role at Lincolnshire Co-op, she will oversee human resources, talent and acquisition, learning and development and engagement, and will also spearhead a new people and culture strategy.
Bennett said: “Lincolnshire Co-op is a diverse business with lots of opportunity to grow and support our communities in different ways, while continuing to make a positive difference.
“The society also has a strong employer brand and is known as a great place to work, so I’m looking forward to building on that further within my role – especially as we work towards delivering our Purpose Beyond Profit 2030 strategy.”
Having started his career in retail aged 16 as a weekend worker in a garden centre, Warman studied business management at the University of Lincoln and then joined Wilko as a store manager before taking up a role in the supply chain function.
After being promoted to head of supply chain and subsequently head of sales and operational planning, he then consulted on several high-impact transformation programmes for major retailers, focusing on technology driven change and strategic planning.
For the past two years, Warman has served as head of strategy and transformation at Lincolnshire Co-op, where he has played a central role in building the Purpose Beyond Profit 2030 strategy.
As chief transformation officer, he will be responsible for Lincolnshire Co-op’s IT and digital functions and project management of transformation initiatives. He will also oversee strategic property development.
Warman said: “As someone who was born and raised in Lincolnshire, this role carries a deep personal significance. What excites me most is the opportunity to contribute directly to Lincolnshire Co-op’s purpose – making life better in our communities.
“I’m especially passionate about how we can harness technology and our inspiring colleagues to strengthen the society’s ability to deliver on its purpose, especially within areas like healthcare and housing – two of the most pressing societal needs today. It’s a unique chance to combine innovation with purpose, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s committed to creating lasting, positive change for the region I call home.”
The society’s chief executive Alison Hands said: “We are in a period of change so it is a great time to be part of Lincolnshire Co-op and help transform our 164-year-old business so it’s fit for the future and can continue fulfilling its purpose of making life better in communities for many, many years to come.
“Karen’s energy, experience and values-based leadership skills will help us shape our people strategy and ensure we’re a first-choice employer. Andy’s track record of leading transformational projects is second to none, and he’ll ensure that drive and vision will continue to move us forward.”
Bennett will succeed interim chief people officer Jerome Lopez who will leave Lincolnshire Co-op in September.
Hands added: “I’d like to thank Jerome for the enthusiasm and commitment he has bought to the role during his time with us.
“He’s overseen changes in our people team, including the launch of our new Thrive values, and will continue to support us during the coming months and ensure a smooth transition.”
