#275: Doug Field – CEO East of England Co-Op
Podcast Details
Hi I’m Doug Field, the CEO of the vibrant and dynamic East of England Co-op, a co-operative society that has thrived for over 150 years and continues to grow with passion and purpose.
What sets our Society apart is our unwavering commitment to our members—over 280,000 strong—who are the lifeblood of our co-operative. We take immense pride in being the largest independent retail business in East Anglia, with a remarkable presence spanning more than 200 trading outlets across 70 diverse towns and villages in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex.
As the CEO, I am entrusted with safeguarding and nurturing the legacy of our members, ensuring their interests are protected for generations to come. It is a responsibility I wholeheartedly embrace, driven by a deep-seated passion for the East of England and the remarkable communities we serve.
Beyond the East of England Co-op, I am actively involved in initiatives that make a positive difference in our region. Previously I was Chair of the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership and am a Trustee of the esteemed Green Light Trust. I work to support and uplift local businesses and charitable causes.
Before moving to East Anglia my career included four years at Christie Group plc as Group Financial Controller and six years at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in Bristol.
Away from the professional realm, I find great joy and inspiration in the adventures that parenthood brings. My three school-age children keep me on my toes and fuel my imagination. Sports also hold a special place in my heart—I relish witnessing the successes (and failures) of my hometown sports teams, from Hull City’s promotion to the Premier League to Hull FC’s victorious rugby league Challenge Cup win in Cardiff.
His Top Tip
Ask questions – Asking questions is a great way to get the most out of our lives and businesses. It encourages us to learn and share our thoughts, which helps build trust, encourages new ideas, and improves performance.
From a leadership perspective asking questions also encourages others to participate in problem-solving and to take ownership of their own ideas. As a leader, it is important to be curious and open to new ideas. It is through asking questions that leaders can gain insight into what is important to their employees and gain a better understanding of what’s happening on the ground.
Finally a good question can begin to shift the way we perceive of think about something that might serve as a catalyst for change