Michael Smith

Town of residence: Hebden Bridge
Occupation: Semi-Retired Accountant
Age: 62
Ethnicity: White English

1. What is your current involvement in The Co-operative?
I moved to Hebden Bridge in 2008 and immediately joined the Co-op movement and in October 2009 was subsequently elected as the Member Delegate for West Yorkshire.

2. What qualifications and/or experience do you possess that are relevant to the position of area committee member?
I am a semi-retired professional accountant and am a member of the Governing body of Calderdale College of Further Education, an elected member of the Council of South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Trust, Director and Trustee of Hebden Bridge Community Association and a Panel member of Schools Admission Appeals.

3. What other qualities would you bring to the role of area committee member?
Throughout my professional working life together with the voluntary work that I undertake I have always been used to working in committees. I possess an enquiring and incisive mind and am able to present arguments and points of view in a structured and coherent way.

4. What aspirations do you have for The Co-operative?
I attended the half yearly Group AGM in Manchester in November 2009 and what an eye opener that was. I really had no idea of the diversity and full extent of the Group’s community activities. I wish to become closely involved with the Group activities in my region and I believe I possess the necessary skills and commitment to make a very positive contribution as an Area Committee member.