At a Glance
- Tasks: Help shape the future of Durham Students' Union and support student success.
- Company: Durham Students' Union, a vibrant community focused on student engagement.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and make a real difference.
- Other info: Voluntary role with flexible commitment and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a diverse Board and contribute to meaningful change in the student community.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of higher education and enthusiasm for student representation.
Location: Durham
Commitment: Voluntary
Term: Four years (renewable)
Closing date: Midday on Friday 29th May 2026
About the Role
As an External Trustee, you will play a key role in setting and monitoring Durham SU’s strategy, providing financial oversight, managing risk, and ensuring the organization remains fit for purpose. The Board meets five times per year, and trustees may also be invited to engage in other opportunities such as sitting on an appointments panel, meeting with auditors, or attending a student awards ceremony.
Key Responsibilities
- Set and monitor strategy
- Provide financial oversight
- Manage risk
- Ensure organization remains fit for purpose
- Participate in Board meetings (five times per year)
- Engage in additional opportunities (appointments panel, auditors, student awards)
Qualifications & Experience
- Knowledge of the Higher Education sector or Students' Unions
- Experience in political, corporate, or financial settings
- Curious, genuine, enthusiastic about Durham SU
- First‑time trustees welcome – inclusive Board sought with diverse perspectives
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and complete the application form, where you will be asked to answer three questions. Each answer should be a maximum of 400 words.
- Tell us why you’d like to join Durham SU as a Trustee and how do your personal values align with the SU’s?
- What knowledge, abilities, and experience can you contribute to our Board’s collective skills?
- How would you add value to the Board and our work to support students?
Please mention ACEVOJobs when applying.
Key Dates
- Closing Date: Midday on Friday 29th May 2026
- Interviews: Monday 8th June 2026
Contact
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Matilda: matilda@atkinsonhr.co.uk
External Trustee at Durham Students' Union in North East employer: Atkinson HR Consulting
Durham Students' Union is an exceptional employer that values diverse perspectives and encourages inclusive participation in its governance. As an External Trustee, you will not only contribute to shaping the strategic direction of the organisation but also engage with a vibrant community dedicated to enhancing student experiences. With opportunities for personal growth and networking within the Higher Education sector, this role offers a meaningful way to make a positive impact in the lives of students in Durham.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land External Trustee at Durham Students' Union in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former trustees and get the inside scoop on what it’s really like. A friendly chat can give you insights that no job description can.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to meet with the board or during interviews, let your passion for supporting students shine through. We want to see that genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your experiences align with the role and be ready to share specific examples. We love hearing stories that highlight your skills and values.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us at Durham SU.
We think you need these skills to ace External Trustee at Durham Students' Union in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When answering the questions, let your true self shine through. We want to know who you are and what drives you, so don’t hold back on sharing your personal values and experiences that align with Durham SU.
Show Your Knowledge:Make sure to highlight your understanding of the Higher Education sector or Students' Unions. We’re looking for insights that demonstrate your awareness of the challenges and opportunities in this space, so do your homework!
Focus on Value Addition:In your application, think about how you can contribute to our Board’s collective skills. We want to see specific examples of how your background and expertise can add value to our work supporting students.
Keep It Concise:Remember, each answer has a 400-word limit. Be clear and concise in your responses, focusing on the most relevant points. We appreciate well-structured answers that get straight to the heart of the matter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkinson HR Consulting
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on Durham Students' Union's mission and values. Understand their current strategies and challenges in the Higher Education sector. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your background in political, corporate, or financial settings. Think of specific examples where you've provided oversight or managed risk. This will show that you can bring valuable insights to the Board.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your curiosity and enthusiasm shine through. Share why you're passionate about supporting students and how you envision contributing to the Board. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the Board's future plans or how they measure success. It shows you're engaged and thinking critically about the role.
