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Co-operatives and Mutuals Strategic Development Program (CMSDP)

Sustainable Co-operative Enterprise: An investigation into the factors influencing the sustainability and competitiveness of co-operative enterprises
The One and Only Program of its Kind

Industry Partners

Overview & Aims

While there are many general management and development programs on the market, most do not meet the specific requirements of this sector, which has acknowledged the need for a dedicated course which captures the unique nature of the co-operative enterprise business model. Many aspects of the way co-operative and mutual enterprises are managed are like more conventional businesses. However, there are also many important differences. These relate to areas such as their governance, distribution of share capital and voting rights, human resources, communications, marketing, and strategic purpose.
The Co-Operatives and Mutuals Strategic Development Program (CMSDP) has been designed by Winthrop Professor Tim Mazzarol a recognised expert in his field, following extensive research into the needs of co-operative and mutual organisations.

Program Objectives

  • Compare and contrast the co-operative and mutual business model with that of investor-owned businesses.
  • Exhibit knowledge of the co-operative and mutual business model as it exists locally, nationally, and globally.
  • Demonstrate an ability to apply understanding of the co-operative and mutual enterprise business model dynamics to solving of managerial problems.
  • Evaluate the impact and make strategic decisions in relation to government policies and legislation, competitive market dynamics, social cooperation with the member community, and the impact of the natural environment.
  • Understand the nature of member loyalty and engagement within a co-operative and mutual enterprise, and how to strengthen and retain member commitment.
  • “The program had a profound impact on my understanding of co-operative and mutual enterprise and has confirmed for me why we do the things we do.”
    Paul Amos, The Co-op Heart of the Barossa, past participant
  • “Excellent level of knowledge from facilitator. Encouraged interaction. Good mix of theory and practical examples.”
    Glen Smith, Co-operative Bulk Handling, past participant
  • “Terrific presentations invaluable to us. Should be compulsory for directors of boards to attend.”
    Participant, Program delivered in Lismore NSW.
  • “All directors and executives of Co-ops or Mutuals should be required to do a course like this.”
    Ken Drummond, WA Producers Co-op, past participant.

Program Structure

Module 1: Understanding CME business models
Examines the theory and practice of the business model concept and how it applies to the co-operative and mutual enterprise.
Module 2: Marketing our co-operative advantage
Provides an understanding of the co-operative or mutual as a service organisation with the purpose of delivering value to members.
Module 3: Governance and leadership in CMEs
Focusses on the specific challenges facing the board and executive management of a co-operative or mutual enterprise.
Module 4: Financial capital and management in CMEs
Explores the financial management of co-operative and mutual enterprises and the differences between them and investor owned businesses.
Module 5: Legislative structures and their impact on CMEs
Examines the legislation specific to theco-operative and mutual business sector in Australia and overseas, with attention to CME constitutional struture.
Module 6: Business model review and feedback
Provides all participants with the opportunity to review, revise and re-engineer their own business models. Peer-group and facilitator support is provided to assist decision making.
Want to know more about the program?
Download the Brochure and contact the AIM WA - UWA Business School Executive Education
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