The Co-operative Heritage Trust was founded in 2007 by three major co-operative founders (The Co-operative Group, The Co-operative College CIO and Cooperatives UK) as an independent charitable organisation to preserve and make available the heritage assets of the UK co-operative movement and safeguard the heritage of the movement for the future.
In October 2019 the activities and assets of The Co-operative Heritage Trust (an unincorporated trust) were transferred to a new charitable incorporated organisation (CIO). The constitution of the new entity allows for a number of independent trustees (in addition to those nominated by the founder organisations) to be appointed to the Trustee board.
The role
Nominations are now invited for independent trustees to join the board to act in the best interests of The Co-operative Heritage Trust CIO, working to fulfil the charitable objectives of the charity for the public benefit. The CIO is the custodian of the premises of the Rochdale Pioneers Museum based at 31 Toad Lane, Rochdale, and the National Co-operative Archive based in Manchester City Centre which holds 200 years of records relating to the origin and development of the Co-operative movement in the UK. Trustees of the CIO will work to maintain the Accredited Museum status of the Rochdale Pioneers Museum and the Designated Collections Status of the National Co-operative Archive. The National Co-operative Archive holds a major collection of Robert Owen letters and the collection is included on the UNESCO UK Memory of the World Register.
The person / persons
To inform the process of searching for new trustees, the current trustees of The Cooperative Heritage Trust carry out externally facilitated skills audits and board evaluation process. Nominations are now sought from strategic thinkers who have the time and skills to contribute to this important role and are able and willing to contribute effectively at board meetings. Meetings take place during the daytime and are scheduled to take place virtually as well as in person wherever possible in addition to the AGM. Additionally, a trustee strategy day will usually take place in the summer as well as a trustee induction session (virtual) for any new trustees appointed. The following skills are sought at this point in time:
1. Accountancy and Finance (particularly charity finance)
2. Regulatory (charity law) and safeguarding
3. Museum and heritage sector specialist knowledge
4. Fundraising practice and fundraising governance and regulation
Trustees provide robust oversight, strategic direction, ensure effective governance arrangements are in place, rigorously monitor the charity’s performance and provide guidance, advice and support in the delivery of the charity’s objectives.
Trustee positions are unremunerated, but all reasonable and related expenses are met by the charity. Support, induction training and guidance as well as any continued relevant training are provided to trustees in order to ensure trustees can fulfil their roles as effectively as possible.
The Co-operative Heritage Trust CIO is committed to promoting equality and diversity opportunities and welcomes diversity in the people the charity serves and also in the workforce, trustee board and our volunteers. Diversity is not just seen as something to aim for, but as something to be valued and an asset in delivering the charity’s objectives.
The Co-operative Heritage Trust CIO recognises that certain groups and individuals are discriminated against in society and is committed to ensuring that equal opportunity becomes an integral feature of all its activities.
Applications to be a trustee from people with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 are particularly welcome.
How to apply
To apply, please read the role description and submit a comprehensive CV together with a supporting statement (of no more than 500 words) of how your experience, skills, knowledge and background will contribute to further the work of The Co-operative Heritage Trust CIO.
Please also complete the skills matrix, declaration of interest form and trustee eligibility form by following the link to the The Co-operative Heritage Trust website. All completed documents should be submitted to Helen Ashley Taylor - Secretary to The Cooperative Heritage Trust at the following email address: helenashleytaylor@heritagetrust.coop
Closing date for applications: Monday 7th April 2025
Job Information
Job Title
NEW TRUSTEE POSITION (Independent)
Company Name
The Co-operative Heritage Trust CIO
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