A senior executive at retail giant Nisa has stepped down.

Sales director Steve Leach is leaving the delivered wholesaler and convenience specialist after eight-and-a-half-years, as he looks to explore new opportunities for the future.

He joined the Scunthorpe-headquartered business in 2014, holding a number of senior roles. Latterly he has managed a dedicated team focused on supporting Nisa鈥檚 1,400 partners across all retail formats.

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Mr Leach said: 鈥淚 have very much enjoyed being part of the Nisa team and helping to build something we can all be proud of. I am looking forward to taking some time out, ahead of seeking a senior role that will enable me to step up to new leadership challenges.鈥

It comes just months after Nisa chief executive Ken Towle joined Asda, with Nisa-owning Co-op鈥檚 chief commercial officer, Michael Fletcher, succeeding him.

Mr Leach is described as having played an important and successful role in devising and implementing Nisa鈥檚 new partner recruitment strategy. He was also a board member of Making a Difference Locally, Nisa鈥檚 charitable arm, focused on supporting the communities Nisa partners serve.

Mr Fletcher said: 鈥淪teve has always provided great support to all Nisa partners and colleagues, and leaves Nisa with our thanks for all the hard work, dedication and expertise he has brought to Nisa.鈥

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