Founded on a legacy of tradition and inclusivity, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David Students' Union (UWTSD SU) stands as a beacon of student advocacy and opportunity. With a rich history dating back to its establishment as the oldest university in Wales and the third oldest in the UK, behind Oxford and Cambridge, UWTSD embodies a commitment to fostering excellence. Spanning six sites across Wales and England, the union's unique cross-national presence underscores its dedication to serving diverse student populations.

At the heart of UWTSD SU's mission lie three core pillars: Student Voice, Student Opportunities, and Student Advice. With a focus on amplifying student voices, the union empowers its members to shape their university experience and effect meaningful change. Through a robust venues function and a dynamic online presence, UWTSD SU facilitates community engagement and a vibrant student life beyond the classroom. Spearheaded by dedicated Sabbatical Officers and guided by a visionary CEO and Board of Trustees, the Union champions student leadership and collaboration to realise its overarching mission.

Central to its ethos is the unwavering commitment to a symbiotic relationship with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. With transparency and constructive dialogue at its core, the Union maintains an open channel for feedback and collaboration, driving continuous improvement in the student experience. From advocating for enhancements to campus life to celebrating shared successes, the dynamic partnership between the university and UWTSD SU serves as a testament to their collective dedication to nurturing an environment where every student thrives.

The Trustee Board exists to make sure that the Students’ Union is running properly, looking after its resources and people, and working for the benefit of students at UWTSD. Trustees will join the Board to help guide and shape the work of the organisation, to monitor its performance, legal compliance and help it plan effectively. 

These Trustees will have the opportunity to Chair the Human Resources Committee and the Health and Safety Committee.

Main responsibilities and duties will include:

• Ensuring that the work of the Students’ Union reflects its aims, mission and values and is of benefit to all students at UWTSD
• Determining the overall strategic direction of the Students’ Union and develop the organisation in line with the principles of good governance
• Assisting the development of the Students’ Union by overseeing clear strategic planning based on a coherent understanding of the environment in which the organisation operates
• Ensuring that the Students’ Union operates in an effective, responsible and accountable manner within the legal and financial requirements of a charitable organisation
• Maintaining sound financial oversight and control of funds and resources to ensure that the organisation remains viable

Specific duties will include:

• Attending at least four meetings of the Trustee Board per academic year. Options for attendance include by electronic means
• In conjunction with other Board members, setting the direction for staff and make decisions on matters relating to the strategy, policy, financing and functioning of the Students’ Union
• In conjunction with other Board members, setting strategic objectives for, and review the work of, the Students’ Union Chief Executive
• Participating in the recruitment of Board members and Students’ Union staff as required
• Undertaking induction and any other training identified to support you to carry out the above duties
• Reading thoroughly in advance of meetings all papers sent out for discussion and prepare ideas and contributions
• Monitoring the performance of the Students’ Union using key performance indicators, project reports and management accounts
• Participating in sub-committees and project groups relevant to your expertise
• Being involved in matters of appeals as required by the governing document
• Promoting the values and work of the Students’ Union, and act in its best interests, at all times
• Ensuring that the Students’ Union operates in an effective, responsible and accountable manner within the legal and financial requirements of a charitable organisation

This Trustee will possess Human Resources Management experience within similar-sized organisations. A CIPD certified qualification is desirable. Commercial acumen will be hugely beneficial for this role

This Trustee will possess Health and Safety Management experience within similar-sized organisations. They will ideally hold a IOSH / NEBOSH or equivalent qualification. If the individual does not have a qualification, the Board is willing to pay for training and qualification for the right candidate

• Comfortable with Mentoring Students: Should be comfortable providing mentorship and guidance to students, fostering their personal and professional development within the organisation
• Enthusiasm for Organisational Values: Demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for the democratic, participative, and student-led nature of UWTSD
• Independent Judgement: Exhibit the ability to make and express independent judgements when necessary, considering the best interests of the organisation and its members
• Strategic Thinking: Capable of thinking strategically and contributing to the long-term development and success of the Students' Union
• Understanding of Trustee Role: Demonstrate an understanding of the role of an External Trustee, including legal and financial responsibilities (although full training is provided)
• Awareness of Societal Inequality: Exhibit an understanding of issues related to societal inequality
• Team Collaboration: Demonstrate the ability to work effectively as a member of a team with diverse levels of experience, fostering collaboration and inclusivity
• Engagement and Activities Development: Bring innovative ideas and strategies for increasing student engagement and developing membership-led activities, contributing to a vibrant student community

The culture of the Board is characterised by a spirit of fun, engagement, and forward momentum. The Board actively seeks trustees who not only embrace innovation but also who will push it to take risks and drive it towards continuous improvement. With a progressive attitude at its core, it values individuals who will challenge conventional thinking and inspire creative solutions. The aim is to cultivate an environment where every Trustee feels energised and empowered to actively participate in Board meetings.

John Wallace, Chair of Board
Mark Bleasdale
Ashley Storer-Smith
Dan Priddy
Tommi Hewwitt
Simran Naseer
Anh Thu Do
Redhwan Al-Amri
Natalie Beard
Lowri Wilson
Taya Gibbons

More information about the Board can be found here 

This role is unremunerated, and reasonable, pre-agreed domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Board meetings last for approximately three hours with papers being shared the week prior for reading and preparation. Sub-committee meetings last about an hour.

The Board meets four to six times per year. The sub-committee meets up to three times per year. All these meetings can be held virtually, with the exception of one in-person Board meeting on a UWTSD site.