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Mutual Mindset: An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals
Do you have new employees unfamiliar with co-operative and mutual structures and their purpose? Or do you have directors and executives looking to deepen their knowledge of the sector? This is a 2-hour online program designed to provide a general introduction to the co-ops and mutual industry in Australia and globally.
This course is suitable for anyone new to co-operatives and mutuals and those looking for a refresher and information on the live sector. It can be tailored to your existing induction training program, or your employees can take one of our online classes throughout the year.
It is facilitated by well-known co-operative development expert Antony McMullen and includes live interaction and two guest speakers.
About this course
The key objective is to educate and inspire people working in the sector to understand more about the unique role and contribution of co-operatives and mutuals to help them in their role in their co-operative or mutual, whether frontline staff, management or directors. It will help build a meaningful connection between the employee and the wider co-operative and mutual sector, as well as strengthen the relationship with their individual employer.
This is achieved through a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles which underpin co-operatives and mutuals as businesses that put purpose, people, and communities at the heart of the enterprise.
It is delivered in a live, interactive webinar structure with a unique live Q&A with two sector leaders. Knowledge is delivered in a fun and accessible format.
By undertaking the course, your employees will learn:
- About the co-operative and mutual business model and how it is different to other kinds of business structures.
- About the purpose of co-ops and mutuals and how they are structured to benefit members.
- Some real examples of co-ops and mutuals through case studies.
- How co-ops and mutuals are started here and around the world.
- Why working for a co-op or mutual matters – in live conversations with two senior co-op or mutual business leaders.
Learning outcomes
Upon completing the course, attendees will be able to demonstrate their understanding of:
- The size, scale and impact of the co-op and mutual sector in Australia.
- The unique nature and fundamental concepts of co-operative and mutual businesses.
- Similarities and differences from other business models, including shareholder-owned businesses.
- The origins and development of co-operatives and mutuals in Australia and overseas (including mutual ADIs, Friendly Societies and agricultural and retail co-ops).
- Co-operative and mutual identity, values and principles.
- Why co-operatives and mutuals matter to a sustainable economy and society.
Length: 2 hours
Delivery mode: Online
Professional development: 2 CPD points are awarded
Guest experts
Peter Rutter, Chief Community & Strategy Officer, Beyond Bank
Peter Rutter has had more than 30 years’ experience in banking across BankSA and Beyond Bank Australia where he has undertaken a variety of roles across strategy, brand, community development, product management, innovation and retail distribution. Peter’s current role incorporates corporate strategy and brand, along with leading a unique community program which partners with more than 6,500 not-for-profits across Australia. The program also includes a focus on sustainability where Beyond Bank has been recognised as one of the worlds top B Corp banks. Peter has an Advanced MBA from Adelaide University, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, is currently serving as Executive Officer of the Beyond Bank Foundation along with being on the Board of a community housing organisation.
Anthony Esposito, Managing Director, Union Cooperative Society
Anthony Esposito is an independent political and co-operative development professional, with 40 years’ experience working in co-operatives. He also has several decades experience working in the arena of human rights, with a focus on First Nations cultural and land rights, and the protection of Country; and has had decades of involvement in environmental politics, addressing the biodiversity and climate crises.
He is the managing director of the Union Cooperative, based in Meanjin/ Brisbane, and has been in an executive position there for 25 years. He was the secretary for 12 years of the Cooperative Community Council – a SEQ-regional co-operative alliance, during the 90s and early 2000s – and was on the Australian Association of Cooperatives Queensland Committee.
He has been a member of several co-operatives including food, housing, art and education, and has assisted with numerous formations and start-ups as a consultant. He is currently assisting the development of the Hands On Artists Cooperative, from it’s recent conversion from a 56 years old community arts group through to building a new creative enterprise and an arts centre in Paddington. The group recently received a seed grant from the Bunya Fund.
Cost
- BCCM Member (1–9 registrations) – $270 plus GST and booking fee
- BCCM Member (10+ registrations) – $210 plus GST and booking fee
- Non-BCCM Members – $486 plus GST and booking fee
Email the BCCM education team if you require additional information.
The material presented by the BCCM is distributed as an information source only and is subject to change without notice.
The BCCM and course presenters make no statements, representations, or warranties about the accuracy, completeness or reliability of, and you should not rely on, any information contained in this presentation. You should make your own inquiries and obtain advice specific to your particular circumstances.
Despite our best efforts, to the extent permitted by law, BCCM and course presenters disclaim all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses (including direct and indirect losses), damages and costs you may incur as a result of the information presented being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason; or being subject to update in legislation.
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