Volunteer Lay Trustee (x4)
Join Us as a Volunteer Lay Trustee!
Birkbeck Students' Union is seeking four exceptional individuals to join our Board of Trustees as volunteer Lay Trustees. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the student experience at Birkbeck, guiding our strategic direction and ensuring we continue to support and enrich the lives of our diverse student body. We are looking for candidates who are leaders in their respective fields and have substantial experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Students’ Unions or UK Higher Education leadership
- Governance
- Strategic Finance
- Strategy Development
- Legal
- Human Resources (HR)
We are also specifically seeking a candidate for the position of Vice-Chair of the Board.
Key Responsibilities:
- Attend and actively participate in 5 Board of Trustee Meetings per year.
- Provide strategic oversight and governance to ensure the Students' Union operates in line with its mission, values, and legal obligations.
- Actively support the rebuild and refresh of the organisation
- Utilize your expertise to support the development and implementation of the Union's strategic goals.
- Monitor financial performance and ensure robust financial controls are in place.
- Offer guidance and insight on matters within your area of expertise.
- Work collaboratively with fellow trustees and the officer trustees to enhance the Union’s impact and effectiveness.
- Commit to additional meetings and duties as necessary, depending on specific outcomes and organizational needs.
- Provide coaching and mentoring support for the elected student and officer trustees (who make up 50% of the Trustee Board), many of whom are first time trustees
- (For candidates for Vice-Chair) the SU is specifically looking for someone willing and able to actively support and coach the elected officer trustee who chairs the Board meetings
Person Specification:
- Proven expertise and experience in at least one of the specified areas.
- Availability to commit to the required meeting schedule and additional responsibilities as needed.
- A strong commitment to the values and mission of Birkbeck Students' Union.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to think strategically and contribute to the Union’s long-term planning.
- A thorough understanding of governance and the role of a trustee.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team.
- A naturally coaching approach to persuading others and negotiating outcomes
- Desirable is an appreciation and understanding of the role of elected trustees.
Benefits:
- The opportunity to make a significant impact on the direction and success of Birkbeck Students' Union.
- Personal and professional development through engagement in governance and strategic planning.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and motivation for applying. Applications should be sent to su-committees@bbk.ac.uk by 21 February 2026.
Birkbeck Students' Union is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all individuals, regardless of background, who meet the role's criteria.
Join us and contribute to shaping the future of our vibrant community!