Want to make a real impact at Heriot-Watt and help shape a future where every student thrives?

Join our Trustee Board and be a part of delivering Heriot-Watt Student Union's Big Plan (our 2030 strategy)!
We're not just looking for experience – we want your curiosity, commitment, and a genuine desire to contribute to a FUN, BRAVE, EMPOWERING, WELCOMING, and STUDENT-FOCUSED union.

Student Trustees are key members of our Board, responsible for the overall direction and governance of the Student Union.
You'll be involved in:

• Contributing to strategic planning and setting long-term goals.
• Overseeing the Union's financial health and ensuring responsible spending.
• Ensuring the Union is meeting its legal and charitable obligations.
• Representing the views and needs of Heriot-Watt students.
• Participating in Board decisions.

The work involves attending regular meetings, reviewing documents, engaging in constructive discussions, and working collaboratively with other trustees and Union staff.

What will you do?

• Help prioritise our five key strategic areas: connections, opportunities, representation, services, and advice that matter to you and your fellow students.
• Contribute to our transformation through optimisation, digitisation, and investment in our people
• Provide guidance to the Board on what it’s like to be a student at Heriot-Watt University
• Ensure our actions reflect the diverse needs and experiences of Heriot-Watt students

We especially welcome applications from students who:

• Care about making a difference and representing the diverse voices within our student body.
• Can contribute their unique perspectives to our transformation journey.
• Are passionate about ensuring the Union is a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.

What's in it for you?

• The opportunity to shape the future of your student union and leave a lasting legacy.
• Real practical experience in leadership, strategy and governance within a supportive network.
• Skills development in communication, teamwork, financial literacy, and more.
• The opportunity to be part of a fun, brave, and empowering team!
• Be appointed as a Director of the Union sharing experiences with your fellow Board colleagues
   

Skills Development – As a trustee you'll gain crucial skills relevant and applicable to all aspects of working life, career development and future opportunities:

Communication: Honing your ability to articulate student perspectives, participate actively in discussions, and listen effectively to diverse viewpoints.

Critical Thinking & Decision-Making: Developing the ability to analyse data, reports, and proposals, ask thoughtful questions, and make informed, objective judgments.

Ethics and Objectivity: Representing a diverse student body, enhancing equality, fairness and inclusion, and prioritising the welfare of the entire student community.

Time Management and Organisation: Mastering the ability to balance trustee responsibilities with academic and personal commitments, effectively plan, and contribute meaningfully.

Resilience and Adaptability: Learning to navigate challenges, remaining focused and positive, and responding effectively to new situations and evolving responsibilities within a governance setting.

And finally...

Important Notes: You cannot apply if you work for the Student Union or hold a position on Student Executive.

Any questions? Email hr@hwunion.com

Trustee Term: Up to two terms (2 years each ie maximum 4 years)

Meetings: 4 evening meetings a year currently (5:30-7:30pm), up to four sub-committee meetings a year (2hrs per meeting), and an annual awayday and meal

Ready to make a difference?

Submit your application before the deadline. We're looking for a note (no longer than 2 pages) telling us a little about yourself, what you're studying at HWU and why you'd make a great Trustee!

Interviews will then take place as an opportunity for us to get to know you a little better (and for you to get to know us!).