North West

As a recently elected Council Member, I’m new to the Co-op. Although, having shopped with them for over 20 years, I feel that my local Bromley Cross store belongs to me. Of course, as a member, it actually does! That’s what’s so unique about our Co-op and what excites me when I think about the potential for the wider communication of that message. A graduate of Keele University, I have worked in strategic planning and marketing for the Tootal Group, organised a reading charity, been a primary teacher for 12 years and now own and run a healthy vending business for schools and colleges.

I'm very passionate about the Co-op and proudly served as President of our National Members' Council for six years. I previously chaired the board of Venture Housing Association during their recent amalgamation with a Merseyside Registered Provider, and now serve on the board of another Liverpool housing association. I am the Chief Executive Officer of the Co-op Foundation, and served four years as a member of the Co-op Party’s National Executive. I also sit on the board of the trading arm of a Merseyside foodbank and renewable energy co-op.

I've been a Co-op Member for over 16 years and am a qualified Chartered Certified Accountant. I used to work in the Co-op's Internal Audit team, gaining an overview of all the Co-op's business activities, products and services and their commercial impact within the retail sector. I am an active part of the Co-op Credit Union and firmly believe in Co-op values and principles. I'm committed to adding value to the Members’ Council.

I became involved in co-operation after joining the Co-op’s apprenticeship programme in 2012 and have since sought to embody all that our movement stands for and represents. I’m passionate about making our Co-op relevant for the next generation and believe I can bring a fresh perspective to the Council. I’m proud to be a colleague member.

My pride in our Co-op stems from our difference: ethics and sustainability, 'One Member, One Vote' and our positive impact in local communities. My 14 years as a colleague have cemented my genuine passion for community as demonstrated in my roles in the Co-op Support Centre and as a Member Pioneer. Co-op values and principles are fundamental to me professionally and personally. I want to help ensure these remain at the heart of business decisions.

Awaiting statement

As a founding member of the Members’ Council from May 2015, I am excited to be at the centre of the organisation, representing members in the North West. My co-operative experience has been invaluable in further developing my understanding of how things tick and the vital importance of values, principles and other Co-op aims and ambitions. I enjoyed being a Member Pioneer for Lancaster and Morecambe, having led several local forums and co-ordinating charity fundraising events with the support of store managers and colleagues.

I am 49 years old and I live with my husband Steve, our two sons, Marcus and Harvey and our dog Jessie. I work for Co-op Insurance as a Product Consultant, making sure our products are right for our members and customers. I enjoy family walks with a nice pub lunch at the end. Like most members of the Co-op, I value the part it plays in local communities.