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Board Election

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Run for the Board

If the following statements apply to you, you would be a great candidate!

  • I CARE about the needs of our community, our Co‑op Owners, and staff.
  • I want to UPHOLD the standards of professionalism, advocacy, and commitment the Co‑op exists by.
  • I want to LEARN more about cooperative principles, the cooperative business model, and policy governance.
  • I want to SUPPORT cooperative principles, the cooperative business model, and policy governance.
  • I want to CONTRIBUTE my wisdom and experience to strengthen the Co‑op.

What Does it Look Like to Be On the Board?

Board members attend monthly meetings (the last Monday evening of each month) as well as monthly or as-needed committee meetings. Committee members determine committee meeting times to fit their schedules. Depending on the board member’s role, one can expect to spend 5-10 hours per month on board work. This includes regularly checking and responding to emails, attending meetings, writing and editing documents, and reading materials to prepare for meetings. There may be times when the GM or board chair requests individual meetings or conversations to discuss board matters, build relationships, or provide operational updates. In addition, several all-day retreats occur throughout the year – typically on weekends.

Each board member receives a co-op email account and must have the ability to access the internet to retrieve emails and attend virtual meetings. A stipend is provided to all Board members to support their service. In addition, professional development is provided to build Board member skills around policy governance, co-op finance, and other relevant topics.

Eligibility

In order to run for election to the Whole Foods Co‑op Board of Directors, the following must be true for the applying individual. All applications will be reviewed to ensure adherence to Board Eligibility, Article 4.2 of the Whole Food Co‑op Bylaws.

Candidates must: 

  • Be the Primary Owner of your account for a minimum of ninety (90) consecutive days prior to the application deadline in August. (If you’re not sure you are the primary owner, you can call either store, and the Customer Service Counter can provide that information.)
  • Have attended one of the most recent 12 Board meetings before the application deadline.
  • Be willing to attend monthly meetings and serve a three-year term.
  • Complete the Board Application and pass a background check per Whole Foods Co‑op policy.
  • Provide a current resume and list of references.
  • Participate in an interview, prior to the election, with members of the Recruitment Committee.
A group of eight people posing indoors in a casual setting at the Whole Foods Coop Duluth. Seven individuals are standing, and one person is kneeling at the front. They are all wearing casual attire and name badges, smiling warmly. A wooden cabinet and dining area can be seen in the background.

The Next Application Opens in 2025

Applications to join the Board open in early in the calendar year and elections are held in in the fall. Sign up to receive our weekly emails so you don’t miss announcements for application windows and other great news from the Co-op.