South East

I first stood for election to the council 6 years ago, because I fundamentally believed in the Co-op's values and principles and was excited to be part of a business that was different, one that didn't just earn money to reward shareholders but spread it around members and the community. The National Members' Council has achieved a huge amount in the last six years, and I'd love to be able to continue this work.

I want to see the Council perform an effective custodian role, and holding the Board to account in ensuring our Co-op remains true to its values and principles. I am a local Councillor and currently retraining as a secondary school teacher. My career in business and human rights included Global Programme Director at the International Transport Workers Federation and ETI’s Head of Collective Action. I have a PhD from Queen Mary University of London.

I live in Thatcham, Berks. I shop in my local Co-op almost every day and have done for the last 30 years. I am married and Mum to four sons and have a little granddaughter. I also run a book keeping and accountancy business. I hope to see thriving local member forums and vibrant member activity be the key to the success of the Co-op as a membership organisation. In turn, this will hopefully provide an opportunity for increased trade and recognition for the business.

I live in Folkestone, Kent. I am currently an LGV driver at our West Thurrock Depot. Previously, I was a store manager for 10 years. I also sit as the chair of a charity trust, which I have held for 10 years and am pleased and proud of the work we do with young people. As a Council Member, it's my role to hold the Board to account and make sure our values and principles are alive in our business.

I want to work with the Co-op to achieve the best possible value for myself and other members, to work with suppliers and stores to deliver for members, and to contribute to local communities in a meaningful way. My plan is to have a broader positive impact by working with an organisation that aligns with my personal values, which the Co-op does, to do bigger and better things.

I am keen to support local member interests in the South East and to get involved in local community activity for the benefit of our region. With a career in the conservation sector, I am particularly interested in our social responsibility and in reducing our impact on the environment. I feel my qualifications and experience enable me to contribute well to the activities of the Members' Council and the Co-op.

I live in Brighton and work at a local sixth form college. I have been actively involved with the Co-op over a number of years. I am also a director of a local, not-for profit community development trust, as well as serving as a staff governor at my college. As a Council Member, I believe application of our co-operative values and principles can deliver a financially successful commercial organisation, which is ethical and sustainable – both as a business and as a co-operative.

My family, cockapoos and I live in Hampshire, where I have led Store teams for 27 years and am a Guide Leader. My focus is on our Co-op being a commercially successful business with a focus on member-owner's, colleague's and environmental needs. On behalf of you, I will continue to hold the Board to account, ensuring your concerns and ideas are heard at the highest level whilst championing our co-operative values and principles. debbie.williams@memberscouncil.coop

I love serving on the members council, consistently contributing to council meetings, adding a fresh perspective on the Sustainability and Ethics committee and supporting strategy on the Co-op Press Board. I maintain close relationships with Co-op stores, my community and my Member Engagement Activator so I can accurately represent members' concerns and aspirations. Co-op Values and Principles are close to my heart and, as a district councillor, "Democracy" and "Concern for the community" particularly resonate.

I have been around the retail industry since the nineties. I have been on the shop floor, a supplier, and a consultant. I have worked with retailers across the world and in all products types. I have strong community and work ethic, and have been involved in works councils and volunteer directorships. Lastly, I am father of five with a blended family, a grand father and I am passionate about empowering others.