At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the West Midlands regional team and implement strategic planning.
- Company: Join the University and College Union, representing over 120,000 education professionals.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, and tailored training opportunities.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE level education and experience in trade unions or not-for-profits required.
University and College Union have a new opportunity for Regional Official – West Midlands to join the team!
Reference Number: RO1
Salary: £72,414.00 p.a.
Hours: 35 per week
Contract: Permanent and full time
Location: Birmingham, B3 3AS
Closing Date: Wednesday 10 June at 10.00 am
About Us: The University and College Union (UCU) represents over 120,000 academics, lecturers, trainers, instructors, researchers, managers, administrators, computer staff, librarians and postgraduates in universities, colleges, prisons, adult education and training organisations across the UK. We also have members in the private sector, for example in private training agencies and language schools, as well as members working on a freelance basis. Students training to teach in post-school education also belong to UCU.
Regional Official – About the role: UCU is seeking a Regional Official to lead our West Midlands regional team. In this rewarding role, based in our Birmingham office and reporting to the Head of Bargaining & Representation, your main duties will include:
- Implementation of national and regional strategic planning in the region
- Line management of the regional office staff, including appraisal and development
- Implementation of national agreements, national benchmarks and other nationally agreed bargaining objectives at branch level
- Conducting and supporting negotiations with employing institutions in accordance with nationally, regionally, and locally agreed bargaining objectives
- Securing and maintaining recognition of UCU in the region
Regional Official – You:
- Educated to GCSE level or equivalent (incl. maths & English)
- Experience of a similar working environment and/or understanding of working for a Trade Union or other not-for-profit organisation
- Experience of managing a team of staff
- Experience of collective bargaining with employers
- Experience of representing individuals in disciplinary and grievances cases
- Experience of trade union organising
- Experience of effective planning and organising under pressure
Regional Official – Benefits: We offer a number of financial and welfare benefits to support our employees, highlights include:
- Supportive Family Policies: Embrace family life with enhanced Maternity, Adoption, Paternity, and Shared Parental Leave schemes
- Health and Well-being Support: Access to confidential counselling 24/7 through our Employee Assistance Programme; advice and face-to-face intervention from via our Physiotherapy Advice Line; healthcare assessment
- Flexible Working: Take advantage of our Flexitime scheme, allowing you to tailor your work hours within our Work Life Balance policy
- Financial Assistance: Benefit from being enrolled in the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), childcare support, interest-free season ticket loans, and assistance with the cost of eyesight testing and glasses for DSE use
- Training and Development: Elevate your skills with tailored training, developmental support, and access to live and on demand courses available through our online training platform
Note: working arrangements UCU requires its employees to work from their office/in the field for at least 60% of their working week. They may apply to work from home for the remaining 40% but UCU cannot guarantee that this will be agreed.
Further information: We welcome applications from any candidate but are particularly keen to receive applications from women and global majority candidates, who are currently underrepresented at this grade in UCU; if this is you and you are interested in the post, we invite you to join an online briefing, on Wednesday 3 June from 1pm. If you’d like to attend the briefing, please refer to our website for details of how to apply.
Diversity & Inclusion Monitoring: We need your support to make sure our employees come from a variety of backgrounds, so we especially welcome applications from disadvantaged communities.
Equal Opportunities: UCU is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. We are happy to accept applications in alternative formats from applicants who, for reasons of disability, may find it difficult to fill in our standard form. Please see the advert on our website for further details.
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 10 June 2026 at 10am.
Interview date: Thursday 16 July 2026
To submit your application for this exciting Regional Official opportunity, please click ‘Apply
Regional Official in Birmingham employer: University and College Union
The University and College Union (UCU) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment in Birmingham that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With comprehensive benefits including flexible working arrangements, enhanced family policies, and tailored training opportunities, UCU fosters a culture of inclusivity and development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the education sector.
Contact Detail:
University and College Union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Official in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and trade union sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Regional Official role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UCU's values and recent initiatives. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for supporting educators and your understanding of the challenges they face. Tailor your responses to reflect how you can contribute to our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your experience in collective bargaining and team management. The more comfortable you are discussing your skills, the more confident you'll be during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our online briefing sessions; they’re a great opportunity to learn more about the role and ask any burning questions you might have.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Official in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Regional Official. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what UCU is looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous jobs; explain how your past experiences, especially in trade unions or not-for-profit organisations, have prepared you for this role. We want to see your journey and how it connects to what we do!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and is considered promptly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University and College Union
✨Know Your Union
Familiarise yourself with the University and College Union's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their strategic goals will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for in a Regional Official.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your experience in collective bargaining, team management, and representing individuals in disciplinary cases. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their current challenges in the West Midlands region.
✨Practice Your Delivery
Rehearse your answers out loud, either alone or with a friend. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview. Pay attention to your body language and tone, as these can convey enthusiasm and professionalism.
