The Federation of Independent Retailers (The Fed) has announced its Stuart Hale has left the position of interim chief operating officer after just five months.

However, when the announcement was made, it was not stated at the that his position was an interim one.

Commenting on his departure national president Jason Birks said: “We are very grateful to Stuart for the great support he has given to Fed members and staff in the short time he was with the Fed.

“We would like to thank him for his contribution and we wish him all the best for the future.”

READ MORE: NFRN elects Narinder Randhawa as national president

His appointment was announced at the beginning of 2022, with Mr Hale joining on February 21.

Hale added: “As interim chief operating officer, I was pleased to have the opportunity to work alongside so many committed and passionate independent retailers and with such enthusiastic and professional staff.”

A new chief operating officer will be announced shortly.

Click here to sign up to Grocery Gazette’s free daily email newsletter