Student Trustee

                                                                  ROLE DESCRIPTION

Role Title:

Student Trustee - Voluntary

Responsible to:

Herts SU Board of Trustees

Student Council

Location:

College Lane Hatfield

Duration:

Until completion of course, maximum of two years.

Pay:

Voluntary role (Un-paid)

Purpose:

To sit on the governing body of the Students’ Union to ensure the Union is run well, meeting its aim and working within the legal and constitutional framework

The Role:

The role will develop key understandings of our students at Hertfordshire and play a vital part in the Union’s development.

Vision:

Our vision at Hertfordshire Students’ Union is to help students love Herts.

Values:

We are a truly values-led organisation. As such, our Student Trustees must demonstrate our everyday values of being Helpful, Empowering, Representative, Transparent and Student-Focused whilst ensuring Hertfordshire Students’ Union is truly representative of students. We encourage our team to have fun at work while never losing sight of our vision.

Service Excellence:

We go above and beyond for our students and each other – we’re committed to providing excellent service across the board and we support each other to prioritise this every day.

Equal Opportunities:

We encourage applications from students with a diversity of backgrounds and experiences to reflect the current student population. We welcome all applications regardless of a persons' race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.

Key Role Requirements:

• Must be a current student at the University of Hertfordshire for the duration of the next academic year (2025-2026) and not undertake a study abroad session during the period of appointment.

• Being friendly and respectful of others to maintain a safe and considerate workplace in line with our values of being Helpful, Empowering, Representative, Transparent and Student-focused.

• Being honest, open, passionate and supportive of others, empowering others to be fulfilled in their role.

• Being fair, valuing equality, diversity, ethics and the environment.

• Confidentiality is essential in this role particularly regarding sensitive or internal matters.

• Keep in regular contact by email and/or phone with other members of the Board and provide feedback and input on issues as they arise.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Attend five meetings a year, as well one or more training session/s.

• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand.

• Be a representative to all students across the University of Hertfordshire within the Herts SU Board of Trustees.

• Along with the other Trustees, help to steer the strategy and finances of the organisation.

• Providing student expertise, experience and support to Trustees to ensure that the Students’ Union will be able to deliver positive change for its members.

• Help the organisation achieve its objectives and improves the lives of its members.

• Work with other Trustees to ensure the Union complies with all relevant legislation and regulations, including relevant Charities Acts and Education Acts, and related regulatory requirements.

• Add value and actively contribute to the Board of Trustees, offer a considered and reasonable perspective on matters at hand and be unafraid to challenge appropriately.

What You Will Gain

• Experience in governance and leadership at a charity level.

• Insight into strategic planning, financial oversight and legal responsibilities.

• The opportunity to make a real difference in students’ lives and the future direction of the Herts SU.

• Enhanced skills in communication, critical thinking, teamwork and decision-making.