Role Title: Student Trustee 

Reporting to: Student Support and Representation Director 

Place of Work: The University of York Students Union / Online 

Position Type: Fixed term 1st August 2026 until 31st July 2027, Volunteer post - 8 meetings per academic year (expenses paid)

Closing date: 24th July 2026 at 9:00am

Interviews to be held w/c 3rd August 2026 in person/online depending on candidate preference 

About the role

Shape the Future for York Students: Become a Trustee!

Could you make a real difference to student life at the University of York? Bring your skills and passion to the University of York Students' Union Trustee Board. We are looking for two Student Trustees and need individuals who can bring fresh perspectives, challenge our thinking, and inspire growth as we adapt to the ever-evolving needs of a diverse student community. One of the roles must be held by a Postgraduate student.

No prior trustee experience? Don't let that stop you – your experience and unique insights are what we value!

Are you a current University of York student with a passion for making change? As a Student Trustee, your knowledge of the student experience will be key in ensuring student voices are central to our strategy and that we deliver the best possible experience for all University of York students. We welcome applications from all registered students, regardless of year, study mode, or background. Whilst we ask that student trustees are available for a minimum of one academic year, student trustees can serve up to 2 consecutive terms of up to 2 years but must be a registered student throughout.

This is more than just a volunteer role; it's an opportunity to develop your leadership skills, contribute meaningfully to our community, and be part of a vibrant and impactful organisation. If you're ready to make a real difference, we encourage you to apply!

Governance
As our Trustees govern the organisation, and are registered as company directors with Companies House, there are a number of verification steps that we will need to comply with. If you are successful, you will be asked to verify your identity (guidance available here) and will also be required to complete a declaration that you are not disqualified from holding a trustee position (guidance available here). Please ensure that you are comfortable with completing these steps before you apply. The Charity Commission provides more information about the role of a Trustee.

These are unpaid volunteer opportunities; however, reasonable out of pocket expenses will be paid. The broad time commitment is for attendance (virtually or in person) at approximately 8 meetings/events per year.

Benefits

Becoming a Student Trustee is a great role to build experience to enhance your CV. You will gain experience of working within a team, make crucial strategic collective decisions and represent students across the university. Being a trustee has so many transferable skills such as leadership, strategy, financial management and communication. Being a trustee can help you stand out as a candidate when you look to apply for roles in your chosen future career.

Being a trustee means that you will:
- ensure that the SU prioritises its missions & values.
- gain strategic experience that would normally take years!
- build a professional network with Officers, External Trustees and SU staff, as well as university staff and external    partners.
- gain a greater understanding of your strengths while developing new skills.
- make a huge difference to a community of 22,000+ students.

Should the above dates not fit with your current commitments, please don’t let that put you off applying. Let us know ([email protected]) and we will do our best to provide an alternative. If you have any further questions about the position, or if you have a requirement for adjustments that would make the application or interview process more accessible, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]

Further Information

We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. Whatever your background, religion, identity, relationship status if you're good at what you do and want to provide the best experience possible for, with and by our students then jump in with your whole self.

The University of York Students Union is committed to equality of opportunity - we are an organisation who works very hard to ensure we appoint based on merit. We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with disabilities and/or from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are proud to offer an interview to applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised position.

If you are invited to interview with us we will share our interview questions in advance so you can prepare your responses. We’re more interested in hearing about your experiences and ideas than in testing your memory, and so we want you to feel as prepared as possible.

If you have any further questions about the position, or if you have a requirement for adjustments that would make the application or interview process more accessible, please do not hesitate to contact us on [email protected].