The CFS is the financial services arm of the Co-operative Group, the UK’s largest mutual retailer, and includes The Co-operative Bank, the former building society Britannia, internet bank Smile and Co-operative Insurance.
 
Before joining KPMG in 2005, Tooher was a financial journalist for 16 years, latterly as business editor of the Financial Mail on Sunday.
 
Patrick said: “I’ve long been an admirer of the Co-operative Group and its values so, as a Mancunian as well, this represents a real homecoming in every sense.”
 
In his new role Tooher will report to Russ Brady, head of group public relations at the Co-operative Group.
 
Brady said: “I’m delighted to have Patrick on board. He brings a strong media and industry background and will play a significant role in driving our public relations agenda forward.”
 
Phil Edwards will continue in his role as head of PR for The Group’s trading businesses which include food, pharmacy and travel. 
 
Tooher starts at The Co-operative on 31 August.