The Old Town and Lawn councillor confirmed the news on Thursday (5th November), describing the appointment as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a difference to the UK.
Robbins will take up the senior national position in early December, succeeding Joe Fortune, who recently became General Secretary of the Labour Party.
His departure from the local Labour leadership comes just six months after he lost his position as Leader of Swindon Borough Council following May’s local elections, which saw Labour lose its majority and Conservative councillor Gary Sumner take charge of a minority administration.
However, Jim has confirmed he will remain a borough councillor, continuing to represent residents in Old Town and Lawn.
Announcing his appointment, he said:
“I’m delighted to share that I have been appointed General Secretary of the Co-operative Party.
“It is an incredibly exciting time for the Co-operative Party. We have a Labour and Co-operative Prime Minister, Deputy PM and a record number of Cabinet Ministers and MPs.
“Allied with the commitment to double the size of the co-operative sector, it feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a tangible difference to the UK and the sector.”
Jim has been involved in local government since 2012 and led Swindon Borough Council during a period of considerable financial and political challenges.
Reflecting on his time leading the authority, he highlighted work to strengthen its finances, progress regeneration projects and attract investment, alongside helping secure the Thames Valley devolution agreement.
He said:
“Leading one of the UK’s fastest-growing towns through a period of economic, financial and political challenge has been both demanding and rewarding.
“During that time, I have been fortunate to work alongside talented councillors, dedicated council officers, local businesses, community organisations and residents who share an ambition to make Swindon an even better place to live, work and invest.”
The Co-operative Party works closely with Labour and promotes policies centred on democratic ownership, community empowerment and co-operative businesses.
Robbins has also served as chair of the Co-operative Councils’ Innovation Network, which brings together local authorities seeking to develop co-operative approaches to public services.
His appointment places him in one of the most senior positions within the wider Labour and co-operative movement.
Despite his new national responsibilities, Jim insisted that his commitment to Swindon would continue.
“Although I’m stepping down as Group Leader, I will continue to serve as a councillor for Old Town and Lawn and remain committed to supporting Swindon and the wider region.
“The Co-operative Party has shaped my political values throughout my adult life. The opportunity to serve as its General Secretary is therefore both humbling and exciting.”
His announcement did not identify who would succeed him as leader of Swindon’s Labour and Co-operative Group.
