The Co-op has appointed two new independent non-executive directors to its board, as it focuses on bringing more value to its member-owners.

The convenience retailer has announced Cambridge University deputy vice chancellor Lord Simon Woolley as a new member of its board.

Co-founder of international NGO campaign group Operation Black Vote, Woolley has worked with ethnic minorities in the UK to increase understanding of civic society, participation in Parliament and public life, and to promote equality and human rights.

He currently holds an advisory role with The King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme, and is a non-executive director of Police Now and Youth Futures Foundation.

Previously, Woolley served as an equality and human rights commissioner, and created and led the UK government’s pioneering Race Disparity Unit.

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Joining Woolley, Co-op has also appointed Wais Shaifta as a new member of its board, in a move aimed to “bring depth of understanding of the role technology plays” in delivering more value to member-owners.

Shaifta, previously CEO of NHS digital partner Push Doctor, has also previously held senior positions in digital tech, product, business development, M&A and international expansion at Just Eat and Treatwell.

Currently he is an independent non-executive director at Reach plc, Snappy Shopper and the Gym Group, as well as a senior independent trustee at The Football Foundation.

Co-op group chair Debbie White said: “On behalf of the Co-op Board I am delighted to welcome Simon and Wais. Both directors bring considerable skills and expertise to the board at an exciting time as the Co-op focuses on growing its businesses to deliver even more value to its member-owners.

“I would also like to extend the Board’s gratitude and my own personal thanks to Victor and Rahul for their significant commitment and contribution to the Co-op Group.”