Updated in 2017-18, this manual is the result of a collaboration between Columinate and National Co+op Grocers. It guides boards of directors of food cooperatives through the steps needed to ensure a clear and professional process, resulting in the hiring of a well-qualified manager. Those steps are:

1. Arrange for interim management
2. Set up a committee to coordinate the hiring process (the Search Committee)
3. Define the job and qualifications sought, and the compensation to be offered
4. Recruit qualified candidates
5. Screen the candidates
6. Check references
7. Conduct finalist interviews
8. Make the job offer
9. Welcome and orient the new general manager