At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic discussions and inspire change for Middlesex University students.
- Company: Middlesex University Students' Union, a vibrant community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Gain leadership experience, network with diverse individuals, and make a real impact.
- Other info: Voluntary role with flexible commitment and support for expenses.
- Why this job: Shape the future of student life and empower your peers in North London.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience and a passion for community engagement.
Position Overview: Chair of the Board – Middlesex University Students’ Union.
Location: North London.
Contract: Voluntary Trustee position.
Time commitment: In‑person meetings approx. 4 times per year.
About the Role: This role provides strategic leadership, builds strong relationships, and ensures effective governance across the organisation. The Chair works closely with the Chief Executive, elected Student Officers, and the Board of Trustees to shape the future direction of the Union and deliver meaningful impact for students. The Chair will lead Board meetings, support effective governance, oversee organisational and financial sustainability, and act as line manager to the Chief Executive. With the support of a Board Secretary, the Chair must inspire confidence, build trust across a diverse group of trustees, and enable collaboration among both first‑time student trustees and experienced senior leaders.
About You: We are looking for a Chair who brings a fresh perspective from the wider charity and voluntary sector. The ideal candidate has senior leadership experience outside the students’ union sector and is rooted in or deeply connected to the communities we serve. Understanding and being energized by the power of community is essential. Experience or significant work in addressing barriers to education or economic opportunity in north London is preferred.
Time Commitment & Expenses: Trustees attend approximately four Board meetings per year, with occasional away days, Teams calls and MDXSU events. Additional committee work may involve up to four online meetings annually. MDXSU covers all reasonable out‑of‑pocket expenses incurred while carrying out trustee duties.
Chair of the Board at Middlesex University Students' Union employer: Acevo
Middlesex University Students' Union is an exceptional employer that values strategic leadership and community engagement, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in North London. As a voluntary trustee, you will collaborate with diverse stakeholders, fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation while supporting the growth of both the organisation and its student members. With a commitment to effective governance and sustainability, this role provides a platform for personal and professional development within a vibrant educational environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Board at Middlesex University Students' Union
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Board at Middlesex University Students' Union
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Acevo, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Acevo.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acevo
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Acevo and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
