close up of blueberries on a branch

About the Board

The Ashland Food Co-op is governed by an elected Board of Directors made up of co-op owners just like you. The Board sets long-range strategic goals, acts as trustee on behalf of all owners, oversees finances, and hires and supervises the General Manager. Every owner has the right to vote in Board elections - and even run for a seat.

Meet the Board

What Does the Board Do?

Board Directors are volunteers elected to three-year terms. The Board of Directors has four primary duties:

  • Make key decisions to oversee and guide the business and affairs of the Co-operative
  • Act as trustees for AFC owners and keep owners informed about the status of the Co-operative
  • Ensure sound management of the Co-operative
  • Set long-range goals and plans for the future

The Board of Directors acts as a single body and speaks with one voice. The Board holds the General Manager accountable for their decisions and performance in conducting the store's daily business.

Board Responsibilities

Policy and Planning

  • Define the purpose and values of the Co-operative
  • Establish long-range and strategic goals
  • Set major policies and standards to achieve goals and objectives
  • Look after the best interests of the Co-operative as a whole
  • Make decisions about the Co-operative's governance system and development of policies

Financial and Legal

  • Hire the GM, define their duties, and set their compensation
  • Supervise and evaluate the performance of the GM
  • Ensure that AFC is well managed according to all store values and policies

Internal

  • Establish and serve on Board committees
  • Monitor progress towards goals and achievement of objectives
  • Perpetuate a strong Board through recruitment, elections, and training
  • Review election procedures and ensure smooth transitions between Board terms

Ownership and Community

  • Organize owner meetings
  • Establish and maintain effective avenues of owner input and involvement
  • Establish standing and ad hoc committees of the Board, and recruit owner volunteers as needed
  • Establish and review policies for Co-operative participation in social and community activities, including endorsements and donations

Director Responsibilities & Participation

Being a Board Director requires an average commitment of 10–20 hours per month. Directors are expected to:

  • Understand Ashland Food Co-op Bylaws and policies
  • Attend monthly Board Meetings, Closed Work Sessions, and Executive Sessions
  • Serve on one or more Board Standing Committees
  • Prepare for Committee and Board meetings
  • Serve as Chair of a Board Committee at least once during a term
  • Serve as a Board Officer at least once during a term
  • Join an Ad Hoc Committee as needed
  • Prepare the annual GM evaluation
  • Attend trainings, retreats, and strategic planning sessions
  • Plan and attend the Co-op Annual Meeting
  • Maintain confidentiality and actively support all Board decisions
  • Fulfill commitments within agreed-upon deadlines
  • Financially support Ashland Food Co-op by being an active owner and shopper
  • Participate in recruitment and mentoring of new Directors
  • Participate in other Board, employee, and owner events as assigned
bowls of blueberries with mint leaves on a rustic table

Become a Candidate

The Ashland Food Co-op Board elections cycle begins each year in March when applications become available. The Board candidate application packet is updated annually. Interested owners may also contact the Board Development Committee throughout the year to learn more about becoming a Board candidate.

Learn More

Explore the Board