Former Co-operatives UK Chief Executive Pauline Green has been elected as Chair of Supporters Direct.

The appointment took place at Supporters Direct’s annual conference in Birmingham this month, which saw more than 150 delegates representing over 50 trusts from around the country.

Ms Green said she had been an admirer of the work of Supporters’ Direct since it was set up in 1999:

“I’ve watched the success of Supporters Direct over the last 10 years with admiration. The growth has been phenomenal. It is hugely exciting for me to be part of a leading edge organisation that brings in tens of thousands of people to the co-operative model.”

Dave Boyle, Chief Executive of Supporters Direct, said:

“I'm absolutely delighted Dame Pauline is joining our team and it's a huge vote of confidence for the organisation that someone of Dame Pauline's abilities is joining us."

"Supporters Direct owes its existence to two sources: the inspiration of Brian Lomax and the support of the co-operative movement. With her fantastic co-operative and political experience, she will help us extend Brian’s legacy.

She replaces Supporters Direct founder Brian Lomax OBE, who held the position of Chair from 2005, having spent 3 years as its first Managing Director, before stepping down at this year’s Conference.

Dame Pauline commented

“Brian received a standing ovation from the Conference which was incredibly heartfelt and showed just how much people appreciate and value his work for the trust movement. I have a hard act to follow, but I know he’ll be on hand to help, as will my colleagues on the SD Board.”