‘Stronger together’ – Leading through shared values
In this trustee interview, we continue to explore the dynamics of co-chairing and sharing the responsibilities of leadership. Kate Davies-Poole and Paul Sinclair (Co-chairs at Rochdale and District Mind) discuss the role with Stuart Thomason (Governance Lead – national Mind)
ST – So how did the current arrangement emerge?
PS – It all happened quite organically. Our Chair was due to leave quite quickly, so there was an immediate need for someone on the Board to step up. We both had good board experience and a familiarity with the organisation, but not the time (or skills) to undertake the role independently.
KDP – It seemed that our collective experience and skills would work better together, but we hadn’t tried this before.
PS – We both knew we shared the same dedication to the values of the charity, so we knew ‘why’ it should work, but not if it would. We put ourselves forward with no formal division of skills / experience, but what we found was we both were strong communicators and we quickly learned and appreciated what each of us bring to the board individually as well as collectively.
ST – What are the individual responsibilities that each of you take on?
KDP – I tend to support operations delivery and lead on supporting the CEO and senior team. Paul has more private sector experience, he chairs our meetings, and is great reviewing contracts! Collectively, we both respect the quality of challenge – equally respecting our views and coming to a common agreement. There is no ego involved – the co-chairing relationship demands this principle and it works very well for us.
PS – We work together on most items; sometimes we come at a problem from very different perspectives, but we promote discussion and most often come to well-informed decisions and lead the board in that manner.
KDP – We’ve learned as we have worked together. The principle of collective responsibility is very important.
ST – Does this allow for a more inclusive board?
KDP – Absolutely. We have a collective voice. There is space for everyone to be heard and we make decisions based on a better quality of conversation. This allows for equality / respect for everyone on the board. We both understand that even though we are Co-Chairs, each person on the Board has an equal voice and responsibility. We don’t always agree 100%, but everyone feels part of the process. Events have meant we have become a very strong board who know each other well.
ST – How does it work for you both personally?
KDP – It has been great to evolve this relationship. We hadn’t worked together in this way, so you have to get on as well as respect each other’s opinion. It has really helped not to be an isolated voice, to have the support, advice, trust and respect of Paul has been very important to give me the confidence in the role.
PS – Exactly. We both stepped up at the same time. I couldn’t do the role without Kate and her expertise and the balance of our skills, experience and approach means we focus on delivering the best services / support to staff that we can based on our values.
ST – Do you have any tips for organisations in the federation looking at the model of co-chairing?
KDP – I think having an understanding that the role of chair can be undertaken differently. That shared responsibility is built through shared purpose.
PS – I’d say two things. First with us both, it means we share the bandwidth and can support each other. Second, co-chairing can mean the benefit of two different experiences and skill sets – I’d also say go for it – you naturally develop skills along the way. The crucial part is ensuring the personal relationship works; mutual trust and respect.
KDP – Values based leadership is central to our relationship. You have to hold each other to certain principles. As I said, this was very much forged in fire for us – events bond you as an organisation and personally as each of us stepped up to this challenge. Looking back at learnings from our experience, we would probably look at putting checks and balances in place at the start of a co-chairing arrangement and a period of time to review the position to see if it is working for everyone. We are lucky that we work so well together and share the same principles and dedication – it may not be like that for everyone.
You can read more about our trustees here Meet our Board of Trustees! | Rochdale Mind
Posted on: 6th November 2024
