CDS boosts team with Harper Macleod appointment

Co-operative Development Scotland has further strengthened its team of specialist advisers with the appointment of Martin Peters, a solicitor from Harper Macleod LLP.

Martin has joined CDS on secondment for a year to help support the creation and development of new co-operative and employee-owned businesses.  At Harper Macleod, Martin is a member of the Public Sector Department and advises clients on a range of regulatory, governance and commercial matters.

Commenting on his appointment Martin said: “Co-operative and employee-owned business models are known to out-perform traditional business structures, so I am looking forward to helping more clients capitalise on these advantages.  Co-operatives and employee-owned businesses are attracting considerable attention in the business community, so it is a hugely exciting time to be joining the CDS team.”

Sarah Deas, CDS chief executive, said: “Martin's extensive experience will be an enormous asset to us at a time of growing interest in co-operative and employee owned business models.”

Ends                                                                          Date: 18.5.10

More information: Ian Spinney – 07973 671773

Co-operative Development Scotland

CDS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Scottish Enterprise. The organisation was established by the Scottish Government to promote and support the development of co-operative and employee-owned business models throughout Scotland. CDS supports the remit of Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and Business Gateway. A specific focus is on growth industries, including food and drink, renewable energy, forestry and tourism. Co-operative business models have a major role to play in the growth of these sectors. 

CDS has its own Advisory Board comprising industry representatives and co-operative experts.  By working closely with key partners, CDS aims to demonstrate the improved productivity, sustainability and community benefits that co-operative models can offer. Its remit is to:

• Raise awareness of co-operative business models
• Help new and existing co-operatives to grow
• Develop markets for co-operative and co-owned businesses

www.cdscotland.co.uk/