You’ll help make sure the Union is owned by students, and governed correctly.

As a Student Trustee you have the opportunity to shape the business strategy of the Union while ensuring it is running in accordance with our Articles of Association and the law. As we are a charity, you must work within the Union’s best interests, being aware of our charitable objects and financial responsibilities.

You’ll gain skills and experience of the highest level available to students.

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 the skills you could add to your CV, if you become a Trustee:

Business acumen

Being a Trustee gives you oversight and a decision-making role in the running of a 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

Many of the internships out there are 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 chance to interact within a team in a setting that isn’t commonplace within the University. 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. 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 often involves challenging ideas to guarantee the best outcome for Durham students. When challenging ideas, you’ll learn 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.

For more information on being a trustee, you can view the role description here.