A GENERAL MANAGER.
The directors were gradually coming to the opinion that it was not possible for them to keep in that close touch with the work of all the various departments in their spare time which was necessary, and had discussed the subject on several occasions. The result was that a definite motion “to appoint a general manager” was tabled and was discussed on two or three occasions, after which a special committee was appointed to go into the whole question of the management of the Federation. When this special committee brought in their report, it was adopted in principle in the somewhat vague form, “that someone be appointed to represent the committee during working hours.” Naturally, this gave rise to several questions at the following general meeting of the Society, but no definite expression of opinion for or against was forthcoming from the meeting, so that the committee were left to pursue their own way unfettered. This they did at a later meeting by advertising for a general manager, who should be possessed of a good, general knowledge of business, and be in sympathy with the movement. As to his duties, it was agreed that all goods should be purchased by the committee through him, and invoiced to one centre, and that he should conduct all correspondence and see that the instructions of the committee were carried out, as well as maintaining discipline, regularity, and good order. Mr James Bain, secretary, and Mr James Young, director, were amongst the applicants for the position, and, perhaps for that reason, it was decided to take a ballot vote on the seven candidates who had been interviewed. The result was that Mr Young was appointed, and it was agreed that he take up his duties on 29th May 1899.