Evolution is afoot at the eoa. When our Deputy CEO left us for pastures new after a decade with us, it provided one of several catalysts to strategically evaluate our position and realign our focus.
Meet Our New Directors
As part of the changes, we’ve restructured our entire business to reflect our renewed vision, mission, and aim.
We’ve seen existing eoa staff move into new roles, with others moving on, but we’ve also welcomed some new faces to the team.
John Beattie has stepped into the newly created role of Director of Membership and Operations.
“Having led our digital transformation, we now have strong foundations in place – the systems, tools, and data we need to better understand and support our members, and grow the wider eo sector,” he said.
“My focus will be on strengthening and growing the EO ecosystem as a purpose-driven community, bringing together businesses, advisors, and stakeholders.
“eo Hub, our digital member community, and eo Learn, our evidence based learning programmes, will play key roles in connecting people and sharing knowledge across the sector.”
We’re also delighted to welcome Wendy Carter as our Director of Partnerships & Growth.
Wendy joins us from Leeds Building Society where she served as Responsible Business Lead. Previously, she was Head of Communications & Marketing at our partners, Co-operatives UK.
“This new role is a unique opportunity to grow employee ownership and demonstrate real impact on the working lives of thousands of people,” said Wendy.
“We spend so much of our time at work, so it’s important. When you’re happy at work it impacts the rest of your life and those around you. It’s clear that when employees have a stake and a say in how a business is run, they are more engaged, productive and yes, happier.
“I’m looking forward to meeting and working alongside our members to influence the future direction of the sector.”
Propelling EO into the Mainstream
The eoa has a long and storied history. Empowered by our thriving community and working alongside our partners and decisionmakers, we’ve helped accomplish some incredible things.
But over almost fifty years, we’ve constantly evolved alongside the changing needs of the EO sector.
That’s why our renewed mission is all about propelling EO as a force for powering fairer livelihoods, stronger businesses, and a thriving people-powered economy into the mainstream.
We’re building towards an economy and society where people can choose to work for a business that empowers them through a stake and a say in the wealth they create and the impact they have on people, planet, and place.
The eoa is here to expand the EO sector; set the standard for EO excellence; and strengthen and connect the EO community.
“Change without challenge isn’t worth having. That’s a maxim I’ve tried to live my personal as much as my professional life by. And over the last year, it’s helped to steer the eoa into a bold new direction,” said our Chief Executive, James de le Vingne.
“Of course, this wasn’t the decision of one person, but a collective effort involving our board, the entire eoa, and with the needs of not only our growing community in mind, but the entire employee owned sector.
“I firmly believe that we have the people, resources, and tools we need to accomplish our aims for EO. If you weren’t already excited for the future of employee ownership, I hope you will be now. Because the future is looking very bright.”
Join us on the Journey
You’ll continue to see changes over the rest of the year – from our website to in-depth practice guides tailored to the needs of the EO sector , and beyond.
Stay on the eoa journey by booking onto one of our brilliant courses and attending our excellent events.
Don’t forget to secure your spot at the eoa Annual Conference and get nominating for the UK Employee Ownership Awards.