The Compass Board met on October 14th for a hybrid meeting focused on governance, strategy, and the organisation’s evolving relationship with the “Mainstream” project. Chaired by Shelagh, the session brought together board members and staff to assess progress, plan for upcoming transitions, and strengthen organisational clarity and capacity.
Financial and Governance Clarity
The treasurer reported that finances are on track to make a small surplus over the financial year but Compass has the ambition to grow and be more influential. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the ongoing financial and operational overlap between Compass and the emerging Mainstream initiative. While collaboration continues, there was consensus on the need for clearer financial and governance boundaries to ensure accountability and sustainability for both entities. Board members agreed on the importance of formalising these structures, and a plan is underway to keep all stakeholders informed about the separation through a briefing note.
Board Development and Leadership Transition
The Board reviewed its current leadership structure, debating the merits of a co-chair versus single-chair model. There was broad agreement that future leadership should focus on ambassadorial work, strategic direction, and public engagement. With current co-chairs Shelagh and Barry planning to step down, recruitment for new leadership is a priority.
A skills and capacity audit of the board is being run to better understand the strengths and availability of board members, with the goal of enhancing effectiveness and fostering a culture of support through a 1-2-1 buddy system between board members and staff.
Strategic Focus and Staffing
The staff team presented updates on Compass’s strategic workstreams, including the successful rollout of the Mainstream initiative, publications, podcast growth, and local group organising. Recruitment for new staff is progressing well, helping address capacity challenges experienced during recent campaign launches. Alignment across workstreams—Mainstream, the New Popular Front, campaigns and core Compass activities—was emphasised as a key goal moving forward.
Campaigns and Political Engagement
Campaign activities remain robust, with ongoing work on democratic reform, public ownership of water, anti-far-right organising, and collaboration civil society groups. Plans are also underway for future engagement with MPs and potential strategic alliances.
Looking Ahead
The Board plans to pilot new meeting formats, including reflective sessions and more strategic discussions. A “State of the Nation” session is scheduled for January, and preparations are underway for the upcoming AGM in November.
The meeting concluded with a shared sense of momentum and renewed commitment to Compass’s mission and collaborative culture.