“The boss of the Co-op is stepping down weeks after the BBC reported on claims of a 'toxic culture' at the top of the food and services group.”

“A letter sent to Co-op board members had complained of 'fear and alienation' among even senior staff who felt scared to raise concerns about the direction of the business in front of the leadership team, claims the Co-op said it didn't recognise at the time.”

“Shirine Khoury-Haq's departure comes as the group reported a £126m annual loss, after its sales took a massive hit from a cyber-attack last year.”

“Shirine Khoury-Haq will step down as chief executive on 29 March. Kate Allum, currently a member-nominated director on the Co-op board, has been appointed interim group CEO.”

“Khoury-Haq has been with the Co-op for seven years, including four at the helm.”

“Senior managers said they personally had felt intimidated and afraid to speak up in front of the most senior executives.”

“Several sources also said they felt a culture that discouraged any challenge had led to a series of poor decisions resulting in sinking morale, abrupt departures, as well as a 'sharp drop in profits and a rocketing of food waste'.”

“The Co-op's lawyers said they 'do not believe that they represent the views of our broader leadership and colleagues'.”

“In April 2025, the Co-op was also one of several retailers to fall victim to a cyber-attack. The group shut down parts of its IT systems in response to hackers attempting to gain access.”

“It later confirmed all 6.5 million of its members had their data stolen in the attack.”

“The group said the cyber-attack and the 'protective action' it took in response cost it an estimated £285m in sales.”

“Debbie White said: 'We thank Shirine for her leadership and for the significant contribution she has made to our Co-op, to our communities and to the co-operative movement during her tenure.'”