Co-operatives UK CEO Rose Marley appointed to International Co‑operative Alliance Board

Co-operatives UK is delighted to announce the appointment of its CEO, Rose Marley, to the Board of the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA), the global organisation representing three million co-operatives worldwide. Rose's appointment underscores the significance of the UK co-operative movement on the international stage and arrives at a crucial time when the UK government has committed to doubling the size of the co-operative and mutual economy.

In her new role, Rose will have the opportunity to champion the UK co-operative movement, advance shared values and strengthen the sector’s global impact. It will also provide further opportunities for new collaborations, learnings, and exchanges with global partners.

Rose said: "I am honoured to represent Co-operatives UK and the entire UK co-operative movement on the ICA Board. This appointment is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of our sector, which is seeing unprecedented support from the Labour government with its pledge to double the size of the co-operative and mutual economy. Co-operatives offer a compelling alternative to traditional business models, putting people and planet at the heart of their success."

"The challenges we face – from climate change to inequality – require co-operative solutions that transcend borders, and the ICA offers a unique platform for this exchange. I’m excited to work alongside international partners to further these efforts, especially as we come together and celebrate our global movement throughout 2025, designated the United Nations' International Year of Co-operatives."

The modern-day co-operative movement was born 180 years ago with the Rochdale Pioneers and has been a driving force in promoting fairness, equality, and community-led enterprise. Today, that legacy continues, with the UK further recognised as a global leader in co-operation and co-operative business models.

"This appointment reaffirms the UK's commitment to leading the way on co-operation, just as we did 180 years ago when the Rochdale Pioneers laid the foundation for a global movement," added Rose. "We will continue to champion a co-operative economy that delivers for local communities and creates a fairer, more inclusive world."

The ICA unites, represents and serves cooperatives worldwide. Founded in 1895, it is one of the oldest non-governmental organisations and one of the largest when measured by the number of people represented - one billion co-operative members across the planet. It is the apex body representing co-operatives, estimated at around three million worldwide, and provides a global voice and forum for knowledge, expertise and co-ordinated action.

Ariel Guarco, President of the ICA, welcomed Rose Marley’s appointment. He said: "Rose's leadership and vision for co-operatives align perfectly with our mission to strengthen the global co-operative movement. The UK's rich co-operative history and ongoing commitment to social and economic justice make it a vital voice in our international efforts. Rose's expertise and passion will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our shared goals."

The ICA also thanked the previous UK representative, Ben Reid, for his dedication and commitment. The former CEO of Midcounties Co-operative was first elected in 2016 and enjoyed a number of roles, including Chair of the ICA Communications Committee. Ben stepped down from the Board for personal reasons, two years before the end of his term.