Well Pharmacy has announced the retirement of Seb Hobbs, the multiple’s chief executive since 2019, due to family circumstances. 

Mr Hobbs is to retire from the business at the end of September, with his replacement Greg Pateras to join at the end of this month and “undergo an intensive induction” before he assumes the role of CEO in late September.

Mr Pateras has held senior leadership positions in large retail organisations, including CFO at Shop Direct, COO and Deputy CEO at Matalan and CEO at Frasers Fashion.

Mr Hobbs said: “After five years with the company, I am retiring at the end of September to spend time with my wife who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year. 

“I wish to extend my personal thanks to our owners, the Bestway Group, for their kindness and understanding of our situation.

“It has been a privilege to lead the Well Pharmacy, now Bestway Healthcare organisation. The business is resilient for today and fit to prosper in the long term. When I leave it will be with gratitude and admiration for the 7,500+ people in Bestway Healthcare who are committed to improving the lives of our patients and customers, thank you all.”

Mr Pateras commented: “I am genuinely honoured that the owners at Bestway Group have given me the opportunity to lead Bestway Healthcare. I think the scale of the business with its integrated model, along with its ambitious owners and passionate colleagues leave us well placed in the continuously changing healthcare market.

“I really look forward to joining the great team that Seb has put together, who play such an important role in supporting pharmacists and healthcare professionals in improving the lives of millions of people.”

Lord Choudrey, chair of Well parent company Bestway Group and Bestway Healthcare, commented: “On behalf of the Board of Bestway Group and the wider Bestway family I would like to place on record my personal thanks to Seb for all he has done for the business and also to wish him and Emma all the best going forward.

“I would also like to congratulate Greg on his new appointment and wish him every success as he leads our business into the future.”