Could it be you?

Shetland-based COPE Ltd has begun the recruitment process for a new CEO.

The campaign is being run both locally and nationally, as the social enterprise hopes to attract interest in the post from a broad range of potential candidates from all walks of life.

COPE started back in 1998 with its Kitchen department and over the years has grown and developed into the registered charity and pluri-business, award-winning, social enterprise it is today.

The enterprise currently offers 100 skills development sessions weekly to adults with learning disabilities or autism. It also offers various supported employment opportunities across four business units: Shetland Kitchen Co, Shetland Garden Co, Shetland Home Co and Shetland Soap Company. 

Chair, Neil Jamieson said “COPE is really well-regarded locally and nationally and I think it’s clear the work we do is valued within the community. What we’re looking for now is a person capable of driving the organisation forwards into the future. They will need to have breadth of experience and an excellent business head, as well as being someone fully invested in our social and environmental purposes.”

Like other businesses, the pandemic has left COPE dealing with significant challenges, but the board see great potential just now for developing COPE’s services in new ways to better meet the ever-evolving needs of the Shetland community and the participants and supported employees they work with.

Jacqui Birnie, vice chair, said “We see a bright future for COPE, where it will serve the community and support participants and stakeholders in new ways. This is a fantastic opportunity for the right person to lead this amazing organisation forwards, ensuring that it grows and thrives. We’re looking for an inspirational leader with a broad skill set, business acumen, passion and drive. Someone who is ready to reimagine the future for COPE Ltd.”