University of Sheffield's Students' Union - Student Trustee

Join the Board: Become a Student Trustee at Sheffield Students' Union

Are you passionate about student representation, governance, and making a tangible impact on campus life? Sheffield Students’ Union is seeking dedicated students to join our Board of Trustees as Student Trustees.

About Sheffield Students’ Union:

Sheffield Students’ Union (SU) is a democratic, student-led charity that exists to represent and support over 27,000 students at the University of Sheffield.

We exist to represent, support and enhance the lives of our members. We’ve done so since 1906. We are an independent charity and work closely with the University to achieve a world-class student experience. We’ve got a fantastic modern building featuring cafes, two shops, four bars, an advice centre, an activities and sports zone, where students can join over 350 sports clubs and societies. There’s something different happening in the SU everyday: from club nights to film screenings, live music, theatrical performances and fascinating talks. We offer a relaxed space for students to take time out. We also have a nursery and offer childcare.

Recognised nationally for its innovation, inclusivity and impact, the SU is regularly voted one of the best in the UK. Our Mission is centred on creating ‘An Outstanding Student Experience’ and leading with our values of being Impactful, Inclusive and Famously Friendly.

We are proud to:
• Champion student democracy through vibrant elections and active student-led campaigns.
• Support over 350 student-led societies and sports clubs.
• Provide confidential advice and wellbeing services through our Student Advice Centre.
• Offer award-winning entertainment, venues, volunteering opportunities and sustainable food outlets.
• Make a genuine difference to the belonging of students whilst at University and in the city region, also empowering influence at a national level on issues that matter to our members, such as loan repayment scheme changes.

As a registered charity, the Students’ Union is governed by a Board of Trustees who ensure the organisation is well-run, financially stable and legally compliant — always with the interests of students at heart. Please find our latest annual report here.

About the role:

As an Appointed Student Trustee, you will play a crucial role in overseeing the strategic direction, financial health, and legal compliance of the Students’ Union. Working alongside Full-Time Officers, other appointed and elected Student Trustees, and External Trustees, you will ensure that the SU operates in the best interests of its members. This rich mix of experience, skills and knowledge is an important part of the Students’ Union’s sustainability and success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Attend approximately four Board meetings and at least three sub-committee meetings annually.
• Contribute to discussions on governance, finance, risk and strategic planning.
• Ensure the SU remains compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Represent the student perspective in high-level decision-making processes.
• Help the Students' Union achieve its charitable objective and improve the lives of students.
• Agree to our Trustees’ Code of Conduct, which is informed by Charity Commission guidance and the Nolan Principles of public service.


Why Apply?:

• Gain invaluable experience in charity governance and strategic leadership.
• Enhance your CV with a prestigious role that demonstrates commitment and responsibility.
• Develop a deep understanding of how a major student-led organisation operates.
• Make a lasting impact on the student experience at Sheffield.

Being a trustee in a Students’ Union is extremely rewarding. The role involves collaboration, support and challenge, alongside thoughtful problem solving in line with our organisational Strategy.

Previous student trustees have provided the following testimonials:

“Being a trustee is a big responsibility but I've found it really interesting to have oversight over the SU's finances and be able to influence/make larger strategic decisions. Being a trustee of a multi million organisation in your early twenties is a really cool thing to have on your CV/brag about!!”

“One of the most valuable aspects of the experience has been the opportunity to develop my confidence in challenging constructively, thinking strategically and engaging with complex matters. I would encourage any student considering becoming a trustee to take the opportunity. You don't need to arrive with all the answers or even any experience at all; being willing to learn, ask questions and bring your own perspective to the table is what matters.”

“It can be a really powerful tool and there is a room full of experts in their fields dying to help - use that resource!”

Although previous experience as a trustee is welcome, it is by no means essential. We provide full training, induction and on-going support.

Further Details:

This role is for a maximum term of 2 years and also dependent on your student status. It is an unpaid volunteer role. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Inclusivity statement: It is important that our Board of Trustees reflect the great diversity of our student membership. With the aim of embedding diversity into the Board, we particularly welcome applicants from marginalised and minority backgrounds.

We want to support you to do your best during the application process, so please do get in touch at su-people@sheffield.ac.uk with any questions you may have. Additionally, if you have a disability, mental health condition or any other additional needs (such as dyslexia, autism or anxiety), please do let us know so we can tailor the process to suit you.

Important information:

To mitigate conflicts of interest and support board effectiveness: Being on our board means you will not be able to take up paid employment within the SU throughout your term or for the 12 months following
To mitigate conflicts of interest and support board effectiveness: Being on the board means you will not be able to participate in Council activities.

Application Process:

Submit your application by clicking apply and completing our application form outlining and relevant skills, experience and why you are interested in the role

Following the closing date stated on our job adverts, applications will be shortlisted and we will contact you by email to let you know whether or not you have been shortlisted to participate in the next stage of the selection process.

If you have any questions about the role, application process or working for Students' Union then please don't hesitate to get touch su-people@sheffield.ac.uk

Location: Sheffield Students' Union

Contract Type: Fixed Term
(contract length dependant on student status and a maximum of 2 years)

Salary: Unpaid/Volunteer
(Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed)

Specific Hours: Zero hours
(the post holder is expected to attend board meetings throughout the year)

Closing Date: Monday 16th November 2026 (11:59pm)

Interviews/Assessments:
TBC November/December 2026

Start Date: January 2027