The Role:

Our food co-op has been operating for 22 years but is set to go through a period of expansion and organisational independence from the church. We are looking for a self-motivated, organised individual with good community organising and social entrepreneurship skills to support current operations and to work with the management committee on this new stage.

We want to see the co-op grow, develop our core interests and strengthen our impact, and we need the right person to take the lead in this work, as well as make sure the co-op maintains efficient operations. Of the time allocation for the role (average 20 hours/month), approximately one third to one half will be allocated to maintaining and supporting current arrangements and the balance focused on growth and development.

The responsibilities of the Food Co-op Coordinator position are spelt out in the Job Description but include:

• Coordinate operations of the Food Co-op, including: managing stock; maintaining good supplier relations; and monitoring the (monthly) distribution day roster.
• Recruit new members, support volunteers and seek to develop opportunities for community engagement.
• Identify and develop collaborative relationships with other organisations that respond to issues of food insecurity and climate action.
• Monitor funding opportunities and work with the committee to prepare proposals.
• Offer new ideas for the growth or consolidation of the co-op.
• With the Treasurer, ensure accurate data entry and financial reporting.

The organisation:

The Brunswick Uniting Food Co-op commenced in 2000 from within the Brunswick Uniting Church congregation. The original aim of the Co-op was to reduce food packaging by purchasing products in bulk quantities and distributing to members. Now with members from the broader community, this focus has continued until the present with periodic offerings of practical workshops and promotion of sustainable practices. A review of the Co-op in 2021 led to the proposal for a significant expansion of the co-op, including an expanded, staffing role to be responsible for overall coordination of the Co-op. This includes seeking development opportunities and broader community engagement, including links with the BUC Climate Action Plan and groups with a focus on food security in the City of Moreland.

The position will be initially an employee of the BUC, however, once the co-op is officially incorporated as a formal co-operative (anticipated for mid to late 2022), the position will be transferred to the new entity. This is a great opportunity for the right person to work with the co-op and its members in this exciting new stage.