The role of the Manager in a co-operative

Upon completion of this module the reader will know and understand the following:

Basics

Preparation

Materials for Download

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External Resources

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How to do it

A co-operative manager is employed by the Board of Directors to execute specific duties as set out by the co-operative operational plan.
The Co-operative manager makes tactical and executive decisions that influences the productivity of the co-operative

Is in charge of the staff
Keeps up the continuity by appointing new staff, training existing staff
Implements policies and procedures
Ensures that the co-operative is on track with production
Responsible for purchases, budgeting, personnel and production
General administrative duties such as reports, annual budget and inventory
Makes short and medium term decisions regarding the use, organisation and management of the co-operatives resources.
Must hold staff meetings
Stock Management
Financial Management
The manager is responsible under the supervision of the Board for price control and distribution
Checks the effectiveness of the equipment and make sure that it is maintained at all times
The Manager is responsible for merchandising and marketing the product.

The manager should have strong decision making skills
Negotiation skills
A manager must be able to resolve conflict
He/she must have the basic knowledge or expertise of the product being produced or service being rendered.
A manager is responsible for all the day to day tasks, therefore his /her attention for detail must be exceptional.
He/she must be honest and clear about all the aspects of the business whether good or bad.
His/her people skills will provide a strong platform for productivity, as this will ensure that members and employees are happy in their workplace.
Must be able to communicate effectively through speech and written word
He/ she must be well equipped to understand economical, political and financial trends
The manager must be confident in everything that he/she does
The physical appearance of the manager must always be neat
The work space must be organised, secretarial and punctuality will convey a subtle message that the co-operative is living out its success.
The personal qualities of a manager are intellectual, physical well-being, a value and moral system, practical experience, interpersonal relationships and credibility by knowing him/herself and being honest with regards to his/her strengths and weaknesses.