Non-executive role on Post Office Board to be created for serving postmaster

The Post Office has announced the creation of new non-executive director position in its board for a serving postmaster.

The firm said the move demonstrates its determination “to create a genuine two way partnership with its postmasters.”

The network will also launch a separate consultation in Autumn seeking suggestions for increased involvement of postmasters in the development and execution of business decisions.

“Having a serving postmaster on our board sends the clearest signal yet of our determination to put Postmasters at the forefront of our business, and reset our relationship,” commented Nick Read, chief executive at the Post Office.

“We also want Postmasters to advise and influence business decisions, ensuring we shape the future of the Post Office together. Our consultation will ensure every Postmaster has the chance for their views to be heard, and help us get this right.”

The Post Office added that the consultation outcome will complement the National Federation of SubPostmasters (NFSP), the trade association of subpostmasters.

The latest move follows Read’s meetings with postmasters in July to discuss the company's future growth strategy.

Last week, the Post Office has announced the appointment of a new director to implement measures agreed in the settlement of Horizon dispute and a programme of operational measures to reset the company’s relationship with postmasters.

As part of the settlement measures, the Post Office has already taken several steps to improve the support provided for postmasters, from initial recruitment and training, through to daily transaction accounting, with nearly 100 area managers providing personalised, individual support and dedicated teams to investigate for postmasters if they have concerns.