jul-aug-2019

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL Directors should: • Act in a manner consistent with their fiduciary duties of loyalty and care. • Demonstrate integrity and independent judgment, including the ability to understand and exercise sound discretion on issues related to the cooperative’s goals. • Have business or professional skills and experience that will contribute to the effectiveness of the Board and its committees. • Intend to foster long-term value for the cooperative’s members. • Act in the interest of all members rather than any particular member constituency, while understanding and balancing the concerns of other stakeholders, including team members, customers, and communities. • Be willing to challenge management constructively about corporate strategy, the adequacy of internal resources and the soundness of controls, and to insist upon a management tone and environment that values accuracy in accounting, transparency in reporting, and integrity in business conduct. • Be able to work as part of a team in an environment of trust. • In light of their other commitments, be willing and able to devote the time and effort necessary to serve as an effective director, including preparation for board and committee meetings. Requirements for nomination: • A petition signed by 15 members from the district in which the potential nominee wishes to run, filed by September 1 . • An optional statement of candidacy (written statement of not more than 500 words stating the candidate’s qualifications and interest in being a director) filed by September 10 . Get Involved in the Grower Liaison Committee Blue Diamond ’s Grower Liaison Committee (GLC) comprises of nine growers elected by the membership in their respective districts for three-year terms, plus three members appointed by the committee. Three GLC positions in each district are up for election each year. Of the twelve committee members in each district, up to three can hold a non-member purchase and sale agreement with Blue Diamond . These committees serve as communication links between members and the board and management of Blue Diamond . They meet twice a year with their district director and management to discuss issues of concern and crop status but may request additional meetings. To become a candidate, file a petition signed by five Blue Diamond members in your district by September 1 . Incumbent members from each committee are responsible for ensuring that there is at least one candidate for each vacancy on the committee. Advisory Committee Appointment The Advisory Committee provides even closer communication between the board, the GLCs, and the membership. It is made up of two members appointed from and by each of the nine GLCs. Advisory Committee members meet periodically with management and members of the Board of Directors for in-depth discussions on issues that affect the membership. Make a Commitment to Communication Being a cooperative member involves an ownership responsibility that includes being well-informed and involved in the off-farm aspect of your business. It’s your co-op. Take part in its activities. Help keep it successful and growing! If you are interested in either a Director or Grower Liaison Committee position, please call your local Regional Manager or the Membership Department at 209.545.6225. 1 4 A L M O N D F A C T S