At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a student-led organisation with your HR expertise and strategic insights.
- Company: Join the University of Cumbria Students' Union, making a real difference to students' lives.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and contribute to meaningful change.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of one day per month, mostly remote with some in-person meetings.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in a dynamic student environment.
- Qualifications: Strong HR and People & Culture experience, with a passion for governance and inclusion.
Location: Remote / Cumbria
Contract: Voluntary Trustee position
Time commitment: Approximately one day per month, particularly during the first year.
Are you an experienced HR, People and Culture leader looking to use your expertise to support a student-led organisation making a real difference to students’ lives? University of Cumbria Students’ Union (UCSU) is seeking an External Trustee with strong strategic HR, People and Culture expertise to join its Board of Trustees at an important time for the organisation.
About UCSU
University of Cumbria Students’ Union is the independent Students’ Union at the University of Cumbria, representing and supporting students across campuses in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster, London and Barrow-in-Furness.
As an External Trustee, you will bring independent professional expertise to support effective governance, strategic leadership and organisational development. This is a particularly important time to join UCSU as the organisation prepares for the departure of its current Chief Executive after 10 years. The successful candidate will have an opportunity to support the Board through this transition and help ensure strong leadership and governance for the future.
About the Role
As the HR specialist on the Board, you will provide strategic expertise, constructive challenge and support on people, culture and organisational development, while contributing to the wider responsibilities of the Trustee Board. In this role, you will:
- Provide strategic HR and People & Culture expertise to support Board decision-making.
- Provide insight on equality, diversity and inclusion, employee engagement, succession planning and organisational change.
- Support the recruitment and induction of a new Chief Executive.
- Contribute to effective governance, risk management and strategic decision-making.
About You
UCSU is looking for an experienced HR, People and Culture professional with significant senior-level experience and the ability to contribute effectively at Board level. You will bring:
- Strong strategic HR, People and Culture or organisational development experience.
- Experience of organisational strategy, change and transformation.
- An understanding of good governance and the ability to provide constructive challenge.
- Strong communication, judgement and relationship-building skills.
- A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Experience of supporting and developing others, including people at different stages of their leadership journey.
- Experience of the Higher Education would be valuable, but is not essential and candidates with relevant experience from other sectors are encouraged to apply.
Commitment
The Board meets approximately five times per year, usually via Microsoft Teams. Trustees are expected to prepare for meetings, review papers in advance and actively contribute to discussions and decision-making. For this particular appointment, the anticipated commitment is approximately one day per month, particularly during the first year, reflecting the additional involvement required around the recruitment and induction of a new Chief Executive. Most Trustee activities can take place remotely, although the successful candidate will be expected to attend in-person activities approximately three to four times per year.
How to Apply
To apply, please click Apply Now. You will need to submit an up-to-date CV and complete an application form, where you will be asked to answer three questions (maximum 300 words per question):
- Why are you interested in applying and how do you feel your personal values align with our mission?
- What are the key skills, knowledge and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the role?
- What do you believe are the most significant contributors to Board effectiveness?
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Nida at Atkinson HR Consulting via nida@atkinsonhrconsulting.co.uk.
Key Dates
Closing date: 12 noon, Tuesday 29 September 2026
Interview date: Week commencing 12 October 2026 (remote)
External Trustee (HR) At University of Cumbria Students' Union employer: Atkinson HR
Belong is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in central Manchester that fosters collaboration and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to social cohesion and integration, employees benefit from generous annual leave, hybrid working arrangements, and enhanced family leave policies, all while contributing to meaningful community impact. The organisation prioritises employee growth and development, making it an ideal place for those passionate about creating positive change in society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land External Trustee (HR) At University of Cumbria Students' Union
✨Get Involved in Local HR Initiatives
Join local HR networks or volunteering organisations to meet professionals and get the inside scoop on opportunities. Attend workshops, seminars, or meetups, where you can mingle and showcase your passion for HR.
✨Tap into University Resources
If you’re a student or recent grad, leverage your university’s career services. They often have leads on volunteer positions tailored for students wanting to break into HR. Plus, your campus might host HR clubs or events where you can network with potential mentors.
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We think you need these skills to ace External Trustee (HR) At University of Cumbria Students' Union
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, it's all about communication and understanding people. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had working with teams, resolving conflicts, or supporting colleagues. If you've organised events or trained others, we want to hear about it!
Display Your Commitment to Learning:As this is a volunteer role, companies like Atkinson HR will appreciate a clear indication of your motivation and willingness to learn. In your cover letter, mention why you're passionate about HR and what you hope to gain from the experience. Show us you’re eager to grow!
Highlight Relevant Coursework or Projects:If you've taken any courses related to HR—like psychology, management, or even specific HR certifications—make sure to list them. They show you're not just interested in HR; you're taking steps to build your knowledge. We love seeing candidates who are proactive!
Keep it Simple but Authentic:With volunteering, we often look for genuine personality traits over a flashy CV. Keep your application straightforward and sincere. Share a bit about your personal journey and why you want to volunteer at Atkinson HR. Authenticity goes a long way with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkinson HR
✨Show Your Passion for People
Since you're applying for a volunteer role in human resources, enthusiasm for helping others is key. Share personal stories or experiences where you’ve supported people or resolved conflicts. This will show that you genuinely care about the role and the impact you can make at Atkinson HR.
✨Understand the Volunteer Space
Volunteer roles often focus on community engagement and support. Research how Atkinson HR engages their volunteers and ask about their initiatives. This insight will not only impress your interviewers but also help you connect your motivations with their mission.
✨Highlight Transferable Skills
You might not have extensive HR experience, but that's okay! Focus on skills like communication, empathy, and organisation. Think about times you’ve coordinated events or led a group project, as these experiences can showcase your abilities fitting into a volunteer HR position.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
You may encounter scenario-based questions specific to human resources, like how you would handle a conflict between volunteers or assist in recruitment for events. Practice responding to these types of questions, showcasing your problem-solving skills and how you’d apply them in a real-world context at Atkinson HR.
