Drummond retires after 10 years at head of retailer representative group
RETAILER Pete Cheema has been named the new chief executive of retailer representative group the Scottish Grocers’ Federation following the announcement that current chief executive John Drummond will retire on 1 April.
Drummond, who came from a retailing background, and who had been in the SGF post for almost 10 years said he had decided it was the right time to step down.
“I have enjoyed immensely the past decade at SGF and hope I have contributed towards making SGF relevant in terms of lobbying and the political connection on behalf of members,” he said.
SGF president Abdul Majid said Drummond had transformed the organisation in his time as chief executive.
“He has given SGF the credibility and integrity to become a highly effective political engagement organisation,” he said.
“Key policy and decision makers view SGF as being an organisation that they can do business with. He has taken SGF to a new level and transformed our ability to advocate on behalf of our members.
“This is a great loss to the federation and to the industry but I wish John all the very best for what I know will be a very active retirement.”
Drummond’s time in office coincided with major changes and challenges for community retailers in Scotland.
He took the view that the best way for the SGF to secure a sustainable convenience store sector was to influence and inform the Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament. The SGF now regularly meets with key politicians, including the first minister.
The SGF national executive moved quickly to appoint Alloa retailer, and former SGF president, Pete Cheema as the group’s next chief executive. It says Drummond and Cheema will work closely to ensure a smooth transition.
