Tuesday 09-05-2017 - 19:27

Interested in running to be a Student Trustee? We'll be holding an information about being a Trustee on May 17, 14:00in Meeting Room 1.Or find out more about being a Trustee here.

Being a trustee enables you to develop skills that you would otherwise not have had the opportunity to learn during your time at Durham. It is a unique experience to take part in a strategic managerial position which has a direct influence over the work Durham SU does for every Durham student. Here are my top takeaways which I believe have enhanced my employability this year through being a trustee of Durham Students’ Union: #MoreThanADegree

Business Acumen

Being a trustee gives you oversight and a decision-making role in the running of a multi-faceted membership organisation – a real insight into a range of activities which go on within a company. Sitting on the Board sub-committees provides a robust understanding of HR, finance, risk, governance and business assurance, which are all really useful bits of knowledge to take into the working world.

Third Sector Charitable Experience

Typically, Durham graduates opt for internships at large organisations in the public and private sectors. Working as a trustee gives an alternative viewpoint and a different route into gaining useful knowledge and experience. It also gives an understanding of a different industry area and working in charities.

Teamwork

Being a trustee offers the ability to interact within a team in a new setting that is not commonplace within the university. There are lots of opportunities in Durham to take part in operational teams, working with people to make things happen, but trusteeship is a unique way to take part in strategic teamwork, looking at why and how things happen and the effect this can have on an organisation.

Commercial Awareness and Prioritisation

The role involves making decisions on the direction and activity of the organisation. However, it also balances managing resources and an understanding of the commercial impact and sustainability of projects against their potential impact. A lot of the things that a Students’ Union can do are really important but the trustees have to prioritise which they think will be the most beneficial with the resources available.

Challenge and Conflict

A trustee exists to ensure the SU fulfils its purpose of doing things for students. All of our trustees have a different background so the role involves challenging ideas to guarantee the best outcome for Durham students. When challenging ideas, it’s important to handle conflict between individuals constructively, as well as managing conflicts of interest and loyalty.

Wider Industry Understanding

It’s important as a trustee to have an awareness of external influences which could have an effect on the organisation – political, economic, social and legal issues can all affect the work of the Students’ Union and have an impact on its members.

Highest level of experience during your degree

Being a trustee involves being an executive director of an organisation – you even get included on the Charity Commission website – which is one of the highest levels of experience you could get before graduation. All of the skills you can develop, and the high levels of responsibility, would really stand-out for any potential employer.