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At the Heart of England Co-operative Society, we believe in building a thriving community, and our dedicated team is at the core of making this vision a reality. If you're passionate about making a positive impact, contributing to a community-focused organisation, and embracing a culture of teamwork, integrity, and innovation, then we want you to consider a career with us.

Commitment to growing talent from within
Diverse opportunities from Food to Funeral
Dedication to developing our colleagues
Defined career pathways to Store Manager

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Independent Director

Coventry

£4,642

Director Role Profile Purpose of role Directors provide informed oversight of Heart of England’s (the “Co-operative”) activities, providing an independent view of the Co-operative that is removed from the day-to-day operations, with particular focus on (but not limited to) the following responsibilities: Overall leadership of the Co-operative in accordance with the agreed strategy, and setting the Society’s objects, values and standards in line with co-operative values and principles determined by the International Co-operative Alliance. Scrutinising the performance of the CEO and Executive Management in meeting the Co-operative’s strategy, successful execution of the Co-operative’s overall trading and financial performance. Agreeing and monitoring lines of delegation for decision making. Ensuring the integrity of financial and other information, and that systems of risk management are robust and defensible. Providing effective, accountable leadership and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the Co‑operative and that the interests of members, employees and other stakeholders are considered in Board decisions. Key areas: Compliance With direction from the Society Secretary, complying with the Rules, corporate law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations, including the Co-operative Corporate Governance Code. Complying with the statutory director duties. Abiding by the Co-operative’s internal policies and processes. Ensuring that the systems of internal controls will ensure compliance with legal and regulatory duties, safeguard the Co-operative’s assets, and protect member interests. Internal controls must reflect the size, complexity, and risk profile of the Co‑operative. Declaring any conflict of interest while carrying out the duties of a director. With the assistance of the Society Secretary, promoting the highest standards of corporate governance by complying with regulatory requirements and best practice, as and when appropriate. Proactive succession planning for the Board and Executive Team to maintain an appropriate balance of skills and experience within the Executive Team and on the Board. All board members are expected to act in a way that befits a representative of the Co‑operative, and are required to sign, and agree to abide by, Code of Conduct for Board Members. Strategy and performance Ensuring that the Co-operative pursues its objectives as defined in its Rules. Ensuring the financial stability of the Co-operative by ensuring that it applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives. Contributing actively to the board’s role in giving firm strategic direction to the Co‑operative, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. Protecting and managing the property of the Co-operative and to ensure the proper investment of the Co-operative’s funds. Ensuring the Co-operative is properly insured against all reasonable liabilities. Being collectively responsible for the actions of the Co-operative and those of the Co‑operative’s other directors. Culture & Values Upholding the good name and values of the Co-operative. Safeguarding the organisation’s Co-operative status, upholding, and ensuring that, the values and principles are reflected in the Co‑operative’s work. Ensuring that equality and diversity are promoted at all levels within the Co‑operative. Ensuring the Co-operative meets its commitments to its members and that their interests are central to Board discussions. Functional duties Participating fully in the work of the Board and playing an active role in the delivery of the Board’s corporate function. Representing the Co-operative at functions and meetings as appropriate. Through the Society Secretary, ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the Co‑operative. Appointing the CEO and supporting them, and the Executive Management, and monitor their performance. Scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, and providing advice and guidance requested by the board on new initiatives, or other issues relevant to the area of, the Co-operative’s work in which the director has special expertise. Attending meetings, and a willingness to Chair meetings, where appropriate and reading papers in advance of meetings. Attending sub-committee meetings as appropriate. Acting on behalf of the Co-operative at external meetings and events from time to time. Keeping informed about the activities of the Co-operative and wider issues which affect its work. Key relationships: Internal: Building and maintaining close relationships with fellow directors, members, the CEO and Executive Management, Society Secretary and employees. External: Building and maintaining close relationships with stakeholders in the wider Co‑operative Movement, professional advisors including the auditors. Other Complete full induction process upon election. Actively monitor and contribute to personal and professional development. Undertake appropriate training as required. Has attended director/company director training. Key experience, knowledge and skills A commitment to the Co-operative, its values and principles and its objectives. A sound knowledge of the operating environment of the Co-operative. Knowledge of the governance and legal framework applicable to the Co-operative. A sound understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of directors. Strategic thinking and commercial experience (where possible). An understanding of human resources, performance management and change management (as applicable) in the context of an organisation of a similar size to the Co-operative. An understanding of financial management and budget setting. An understanding of risk management processes. A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a director. Sound, independent judgment and an ability to ask questions and challenge. An ability to think creatively. Willingness to embrace new technologies and ways of working. An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. Demonstrable experience of building and maintaining sustainable relationships with stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives. A proven record of successful team working and partnership working. Remuneration £4,642 per annum with the opportunity for bonus payment based on agreed criteria.

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Supervisor

Balsall Common

Join Our Team at Bewiched Coffee in Balsall Common About Us: Heart of England Co-operative Society, has an exciting opportunity for a Supervisor to join our team in Balsall Common on a permanent, part-time contract of 20-hours per week. We are passionate about serving high-quality coffee, delicious food, and creating a warm and welcoming environment for our customers. If you share our enthusiasm for exceptional customer service and have a love for coffee, we would love to hear from you! The successful candidate will need to be available to work weekends. Why Join Bewiched Coffee? Be part of a dynamic and growing team. Opportunities for career progression. Comprehensive training programs. Competitive salary and benefits package. A fun and supportive work environment. Responsibilities: 1. Prepare and serve a variety of coffee beverages and food items. Ensure a clean and organised workspace. Engage with customers, providing a friendly and efficient service. Maintain product knowledge to answer customer inquiries. 2. Oversee daily operations during assigned shifts. Support and mentor barista colleagues. Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures. Assist with inventory management and ordering supplies. 3. Assist the Shop Manager in daily operations and colleague management. Implement and maintain high standards of customer service. Contribute to sales goals and profitability of the store. Handle administrative tasks and reporting. Requirements: Passion for coffee and customer service. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Flexibility to work various shifts including weekends and holidays. Previous supervisor experience in a coffee shop or hospitality industry is a plus.

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Funeral Plan Lead Administrator

Coventry

£13.51

Are you an experienced funeral professional ready to take the next step in your career? We’re looking for a compassionate, detail-driven and commercially aware Funeral Plan Lead Administrator on a 20-hour contract to play a vital role in supporting funeral plan sales, at-need arranging, compliance and branch performance across multiple locations. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with proven funeral experience who combines empathy and professionalism with strong administrative and compliance skills. Why This Role Matters You will sit at the heart of our Funeral Division — directly influencing: Client experience and satisfaction Funeral plan lead conversion and branch performance Regulatory compliance (FPA, FCA, GDPR) Community reputation and trust Your work ensures families receive exceptional care while maintaining the highest professional and regulatory standards. What You’ll Be Doing Funeral Plan Sales Administration & Compliance Act as the central point of contact for funeral plan enquiries Allocate, track and follow up sales leads across branches Process funeral plan fulfilments and redemptions accurately Maintain CRM and funeral administration systems Ensure full compliance with: Funeral Planning Authority (FPA) standards FCA regulations GDPR requirements Internal policies and procedures Liaise with third-party providers and internal teams Support KPI tracking and reporting Funeral Arranging & Client Care Meet with bereaved families and sensitively establish their needs Arrange funerals in line with procedures and professional standards Offer funeral services, masonry, and pre-need funeral plan products Coordinate with clergy, celebrants, crematoria and burial authorities Support Chapel of Rest visits when required Ensure dignified and respectful care of the deceased Manage all documentation accurately and efficiently Sales & Branch Performance Support Follow up funeral plan enquiries through to conversion Support branches in achieving plan sales and funeral volume targets Assist with community engagement and local marketing initiatives Promote funeral planning within homes and the wider community Gather and report client feedback to drive service improvement Operational & Financial Administration Receipt, reconcile and bank client payments Maintain petty cash controls Ensure funeral records are accurate and complete Maintain confidentiality and regulatory compliance at all times Adhere to Health & Safety, NAFD and FPA standards What We’re Looking For Essential: Minimum 1 year funeral industry experience (required) Strong understanding of funeral arranging processes Full UK Driving licence with access to own vehicle Experience working in a regulated or compliance-led environment Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Professional, empathetic approach with bereaved families Strong IT and CRM system skills High attention to detail and strong numeracy skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively Desirable: Knowledge of funeral plan products and FCA-regulated sales Experience handling funeral plan redemptions Multi-faith funeral awareness and community understanding Experience converting enquiries into sales Our Co-operative Difference We are values-driven and community-focused. In this role, you will actively support: Member ownership and democratic participation Community engagement and local partnerships Reinvestment into our services for long-term sustainability Collaboration with other Co-operatives Why Join Us? This is more than an administrative role. It’s an opportunity to: Develop your funeral career in a structured, regulated environment Make a meaningful difference to families during their most difficult times Contribute directly to service excellence and commercial success Work within a respected, values-led organisation What We Offer We offer a comprehensive benefits package including: 10% Colleague Discount in our food stores and coffee shops Double discount on 4-weekly pay weekends in our food stores Colleague discount on at-need funerals and pre-paid funeral plans Pension scheme 3.3% employer contribution 30 days holiday (incl bank holidays) rising with length of service FAB furniture discount of 15% Enhanced maternity pay Enhanced redundancy pay Discounts and savings platform – My Staff Shop Wagestream EAP with GP Access – referrals, prescription service, GP consultations, phone and in-person counselling Refer A Friend Scheme Long Service Award Support for eye care Financial and Wellbeing support from: Co-op Credit Union, Grocery Aid Life Insurance 2 x salary Health Assured Bereavement Support Health Assured Wellbeing Services, including My Healthy Advantage mobile app ZGP24 Service providing video and phone consultations, open referrals and prescription service Crisis 24 – Worldwide security and health information service Terminal illness support

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Personal Funeral Advisor

Rugby

£12.21

Heart of England Co-op Funerals is a small, independent, regional business operating through 16 funeral homes in Coventry, Warwickshire, South Leicestershire, and Northamptonshire. Serving our client families to the very highest standards with our committed team of experienced professionals. We are looking to recruit a Personal Funeral Advisor for our Rugby area to achieve the aforementioned high standards through the delivery of excellent client service. The role will require you to work effectively as part of a team, as well as being able to work on your own initiative and sometimes under pressure. We need a person who is caring as well as empathetic to the needs of our clients and our colleagues. Attention to detail is a prerequisite. Working a core of 20 hours per week, there will also be additional hours to cover holidays, sickness and participation in the Saturday morning rota. You will be responsible for: Being an ambassador for the business at all times Dignified and respectful care of the deceased Managing the client journey Establishing our client’s needs and recommending options and choices available Chapel of Rest visitations Delivering the highest standards of client care Core skills requirements: Being committed to delivering excellent client service to the highest standards Excellent communication skills including strong written and spoken English Well presented with a professional demeanour Physically fit and able to lift when required A flexible and dependable approach to work Good numeracy and strong IT skills If you’re successful in your application, we’ll perform some background checks as part of our pre-employment screening process. These will include a basic DBS (disclosure and barring service) check. In return for your hard work, we offer our colleagues a comprehensive range of benefits such as: Staff discount in our 38 Food Stores and 16 Funeral branches Employee Assistance Programme Discounts for Co-operative Travel and Fabb Furniture stores Enhanced annual leave (rising with service) Eye care with contributions to glasses and free eye tests A competitive pension with up to 10% employer contributions. Salary starting from £12,698 (pro rota for 20 hours per week), with an increase after twelve weeks probation, with additional hours and Saturday rota payments OTE is circa £16k per annum

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Join our team and be part of our journey!

Society
Our Support Centre located in Coventry has a variety of roles in IT, People and Culture and Finance to name a few!

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Funeral
A unique and rewarding career, where you can find a sense of purpose helping families during a difficult time.

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Food
Working in convenience retail provides opportunities to help people in the local community, it's fast paced and dynamic, with opportunuties to progress within the Society.

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