Governance

The attached pdf, by CooperativesUK, is a booklet which seeks to practically implement the ICA World Declaration on Worker Ownership.  The link is a longer version of the same containing other resources as well.  "The booklet is intentionally short. It focuses on the core features of a well-governed worker co-operative rather than providing details about the policies and procedures required. Instead, these details are available on the online version of the Worker Co-operative Code of Governance, which we have developed to complement to this booklet. Here you’ll find an interactive version of the Code, with links through to examples of policies, procedures and strategies that successful worker co-operatives use, as well as containing other useful hints, tips and ideas."

Canadian Co-operative Association. Access to e-newsletter and e-toolkit highlighting governance and leadership issues for co-operatives. Subscription and membership required.

Canada-Saskatchewan Business Service Centre, 2005. Summary of the various meetings the co-operative must hold, including annual member meetings, board meetings, and committee meetings. Discusses required documents and records, including articles of incorporation, bylaws, meeting minutes, financial reporting, and budgeting.

Canada-Saskatchewan Business Service Centre, 2005. Describes the roles and responsibilities of the co-operative board, officers, and committees.

Canadian Co-operative Association and the Conseil Canadien de la Coopération, 2004

Co-operative governence document.

 Excerpt:

1. What is governance?

Co-op governance means the processes and structures used to direct and manage the co-op’s operations and activities. Good governance helps organizations use their resources more effectively and ensures that they are managed in the best interests of their members and principal stakeholders. 

A series of toolboxes that can be purchased through the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation, they include: "Financial Management for Directors and Managers of Natural Food Co-ops","The Governance Toolbox", "The Ownership Toolbox", "A Relationship of Respect: Evaluating Your General Manager", "Hiring a General Manager", "The Cooperative Housing Conversion Toolbox", and "Expansions and Relocations Toolbox".

An index of topic that The Co-operative Grocer provides information on based around Board of Directors and Governance.