Boots UK parent company Walgreens Boots Alliance has announced it is looking for a new CEO as of August 31 as Rosalind Brewer steps down after just over two years.

In a statement today (September 1), WBA its board of directors and Ms Brewer have “mutually agreed” on her departure as chief executive and board member.

Ms Brewer took over the role  from current executive chairman Stefano Pessina in March 2021, having previously worked as Starbucks CEO and held other leadership positions.

Mr Pessina said: “On behalf of the entire board, I would like to thank Roz for her contributions to WBA. Roz navigated the company through the global pandemic, overseeing the critical rollout of vaccines in Walgreens pharmacies and to high-risk populations across the country.

“She furthered our consumer facing capabilities while supporting the culture of community and team member engagement in difficult times. We appreciate her hard work and commitment to the company during this period of unprecedented change.”

Ms Brewer said she was “grateful” to have led WBA, adding: “I am confident that WBA is on track to be a leading consumer-centric healthcare company servicing thousands of communities across the country, especially those that need access to healthcare the most. I look forward to watching the company continue its transformation to deliver localised healthcare.”

While WBA works with a specialist recruitment company to find a replacement, current WBA board member Ginger Graham is stepping in as interim CEO. She commented: “By capitalising fully on the strength of WBA’s strong mission, values and brand we have an enormous opportunity to play an even more valued role in local healthcare delivery.

“My focus will be on our people and our operations, working together to drive shareholder value creation and ensuring a smooth transition as soon as we identify the next CEO for the future.”