Director of Coms and Engagement - Membership Organisation - Michael Page - ref. o10151823
About Our Client
Organisational Context- Member owned organisation: The organisation is owned by 5.8 million members, who directly shape and influence its direction.
- Member centric: The focus is on creating value for members, with their voice playing a central role in decision-making.
- Member governance: Members elect representatives to the Board and Council to ensure their interests are represented.
- Leadership of Democratic Services and Engagement Team: You will lead a team that designs and implements democratic processes, making them accessible and engaging for member-owners.
- Democratic process design: Your goal is to empower member-owners to engage with the democratic aspects of the organisation and connect with their elected representatives.
- Collaboration across teams: You'll work with various teams across the organisation to create both formal and informal opportunities for member-owners to engage with the business and its leaders. This engagement should align with the organization's strategic priorities.
- End-to-end project management: You'll manage member-focused events from planning to execution, ensuring they promote democratic engagement.
- Innovation in member participation: You'll develop new, creative ways for members to express their opinions and influence the business throughout the year.
- Direct connection with member-owners: Engaging with the large member base (5.8 million) will be a critical part of the role, ensuring members feel heard and valued.
- Collaboration with leadership: You'll work closely with the National Members' Council, the Board, and senior leadership to ensure member voices are considered in strategic decision-making.
This opportunity not only involves overseeing democratic processes but also driving member engagement initiatives, with a direct impact on the organisation's governance and operations.
Job Description- Lead a team for democratic process design and delivery: You will be responsible for overseeing the team that designs democratic processes allowing member-owners to elect Board directors and Council members. This includes both formal elections and more informal engagement methods to ensure representation.
- Innovative solutions for member engagement: You will need to develop creative ways to encourage member participation, ensuring members feel empowered and motivated to use their ownership rights. This might include using digital tools, outreach initiatives, or new voting methods.
- Management of key democratic events: Your role involves organising and managing democratic events, such as elections, ensuring they run smoothly, and adhere to high administrative standards while reflecting the co-op's democratic principles.
- Ensure member access to relevant information: You will need to make sure that member-owners have timely access to information regarding how the co-op is governed, the decision-making process, and how members play a key role in those decisions.
- Candidate development for Council and Board roles: You will be responsible for overseeing the development of future leaders, ensuring potential candidates for the Board or Council have the necessary skills and knowledge to transition into elected roles.
- Collaborate with leadership for democratic support: Working closely with the Board, Council, and business leaders, you will establish priorities to enhance democratic engagement, ultimately contributing to the cooperative's business performance.
Significant experience in leading large-scale democratic processes: You should have a strong track record of managing and overseeing democratic processes, including elections, within large and complex organisations. Experience working closely with elected members is essential.
In-depth knowledge of electoral and democratic systems: A solid understanding of how democratic and electoral processes operate, including experience innovating in these areas, particularly within large and multifaceted organisations, is crucial.
Experience managing external suppliers: You should have a background in coordinating and managing relationships with external suppliers or vendors, particularly in areas related to event management, democratic services, or electoral processes.
Previous line management experience: Proven experience managing teams, including leadership in a matrix organisation, is important for this role. You will need to demonstrate your ability to manage direct reports while collaborating across departments and functions.
Excellent relationship building and influencing skills: Strong interpersonal skills, particularly in building relationships and influencing stakeholders, are key. You should be comfortable working with senior leadership, including executives and Board members, to align on democratic priorities and initiatives.
Role based in Manchester city centre - hybrid working with 2 days a week in the office and some evening and weekend work.
What's on Offer
At our business, you'll do work that truly matters. As a commercial organisation with a purpose beyond profit, you'll have the chance to contribute to building a stronger business and stronger communities. In addition to meaningful work, we offer a competitive package that includes:
- Competitive salary
- Private health care
- Company car or car allowance
- Coaching, training, and support to help you grow and develop
- Pension plan with up to 10% employer contributions
- Annual incentive scheme
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays (increasing to 32 days with service)
- Exclusive discounts on our products and services
If you are a motivated individual with a knack for engagement strategies and democratic services, consider taking up this exciting opportunity.