About Ripple Coop 4 Limited
Ripple Coop 4 Limited is a member-owned renewable energy cooperative established to develop, own, and operate renewable energy assets for the benefit of its members. The cooperative is committed to delivering environmental, social, and economic value through democratic ownership and responsible stewardship of renewable energy generation.
The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring that the cooperative is governed effectively, operates in accordance with its rules and legal obligations, and pursues its objectives in the best interests of members.
Position Title
Independent Director
Purpose of the Role
To contribute to the strategic leadership, governance, and oversight of Ripple Coop 4 Limited, ensuring the cooperative remains financially sound, legally compliant, member-focused, and aligned with its renewable energy and cooperative objectives.
Directors act collectively as members of the Board and share responsibility for all Board decisions.
Key Responsibilities
Governance
- Ensure the cooperative complies with its Rules, applicable legislation, and regulatory requirements.
- Uphold high standards of governance, transparency, and accountability.
- Contribute to the development and review of Board policies and procedures.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding Board matters and commercially sensitive information.
Strategic Leadership
- Participate in setting and reviewing the cooperative’s long-term strategy.
- Support the achievement of the cooperative’s objectives and business plans.
- Consider emerging opportunities and risks affecting the cooperative.
- Contribute to major decisions regarding investments, operations, and member services.
Financial Oversight
- Review financial reports and performance information.
- Ensure appropriate financial controls and risk management arrangements are in place.
- Support the long-term financial sustainability of the cooperative.
- Scrutinise budgets, forecasts, and significant expenditure proposals.
Risk Management
- Identify and assess strategic, operational, financial, and reputational risks.
- Ensure appropriate mitigation measures are implemented and monitored.
- Support business continuity and resilience planning.
Member Representation
- Act in the best interests of all members.
- Promote cooperative values and principles.
- Support member engagement and communication activities where appropriate.
- Listen to and consider member feedback in Board discussions.
Board Participation
- Attend Board meetings and Annual General Meetings.
- Prepare for meetings by reviewing papers and reports in advance.
- Contribute constructively to discussions and decision-making.
- Participate in Board committees or working groups when required.
Duties of Directors
Directors are expected to:
- Exercise independent judgement.
- Act honestly, responsibly, and in good faith.
- Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any that arise.
- Act collectively with fellow directors.
- Support decisions reached by the Board.
- Maintain appropriate standards of conduct and integrity.
Person Specification
Applicants should demonstrate:
Commitment
- Commitment to the cooperative’s purpose and values.
- Interest in renewable energy and climate action.
- Commitment to member ownership and democratic governance.
Skills and Experience
- Ability to think strategically.
- Good judgement and decision-making skills.
- Ability to analyse information and ask constructive questions.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to understand governance responsibilities.
Personal Qualities
- Integrity and professionalism.
- Independent thinking.
- Reliability and willingness to contribute.
- Respect for differing viewpoints.
- Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Desirable
Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:
- Insolvency practice
- Finance, accounting, or audit
- Legal and regulatory compliance
- Corporate governance
- Cooperative or community ownership models
Time Commitment
Expected commitment:
- Attendance at Board meetings (typically 2 meetings per month).
- Attendance at the Annual General Meeting.
- Preparation time for reviewing Board papers.
- Participation in occasional committee meetings, workshops, or special projects.
Estimated commitment: 8 hours per month, with occasional additional time during key decision periods.
Term of Appointment
- Directors are co-opted in accordance with the Rules of Ripple Coop 4 Limited.
- Initial term: one year
- Eligible for further co-option subject to the Rules and Board approval.
Remuneration
This is a voluntary, non-remunerated position.
Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in carrying out Board duties may be reimbursed in accordance with cooperative policy.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be eligible to serve as a company or cooperative director under applicable UK law.
- Meet any eligibility requirements contained within the Rules of Ripple Coop 4 Limited.
- Be willing to comply with the cooperative’s governance requirements and code of conduct.
Note: You do not need to be a member of the cooperative to apply.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Ripple Coop 4 Limited welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is committed to building a diverse Board that reflects the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from people with a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and skills.
