Members Approve eoa Governance Changes at 2026 AGM

Members have unanimously approved a vote to strengthen member voice, sharpen our Board focus, and future proof the eoa as we work to propel employee ownership into the mainstream.

Following a successful vote at our 2026 AGM, members have approved the proposed updates to the eoa’s governance. 

These changes build on a strong foundation and ensure we remain fit for the future as we support more members than ever, deepen our policy work, and help propel employee ownership into the mainstream.

We’re now beginning work on recruit a new Chair as our current Chair, Chris McDermott, the former CEO of Cambridge Nutritional Products, comes to the end of his term.

James de le Vingne, Chief Executive of the eoa, said: “Thank you to every member who took part and voted in support of these changes. 

“Your belief in the eoa, and your confidence in strengthening how we’re governed, means we can build a Board that’s more focused, more resilient, and better equipped to serve the sector. 

“We’re grateful for your continued support as we put the new arrangements in place.”

What’s Changed

The vote confirms a series of governance changes designed to strengthen accountability, improve continuity, and ensure we have the right mix of skills around the table as the sector evolves. 

The changes approved by members include:

• A smaller, more focused Board
• A stronger, formalised member voice through eoa Membership Council (EMC) representation
• Skills based (not seat based) appointments
• The addition of a non senior eoa team member to the Board

What this means for the EMC and member voice:

• A stronger, more formal role for the EMC in governance
• Clearer member representation through EMC involvement at Board level with an EMC member appointed as a director
• A balanced approach that maintains member control while enabling specialist skills to be appointed where needed
• Greater focus on skills and expertise to support the eoa’s objectives

What Happens Next

Following the successful vote, we’ll file our newly updated Articles with Companies House and immediately begin the recruitment process for a new Chair. Click or tap here if you’re interested in applying.

The transition to our new Board structure will be phased through to 2028 as existing Directors complete their terms.

There’ll be no disruption to the current Board’s work as the new model is implemented.

We’re grateful to members for engaging with this process and helping shape the future of the eoa. 

These governance updates will support stronger decision making, clearer accountability, and a Board that can continue to champion employee ownership in the present as the sector continues to grow.