Bring charity governance expertise to De Montfort Students’ Union, supporting effective governance and student voice as an External Trustee.
About the role
As an External Trustee of De Montfort Students’ Union, you will play a key role in providing strategic leadership, scrutiny and support to ensure the Union remains well‑governed, financially sustainable and focused on the needs of its student members.
- Collaborate with Student Voice Leaders, Student Trustees, External Trustees and senior management to support informed and constructive decision‑making.
- Review board papers, scrutinise financial information, consider risk and performance and provide appropriate support and challenge to senior leaders.
- Ensure DSU remains aligned with its charitable objectives, legal responsibilities and strategic priorities.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking an External Trustee with strong and credible charity governance experience, familiar with the role of trustee, non‑executive director, committee member, senior charity leader or governance professional.
- Sound judgement, curiosity and confidence to ask thoughtful questions.
- Understanding of the distinction between strategic oversight and operational delivery.
- Capacity to provide constructive support and challenge to the senior management team.
- Ability to keep students’ interests at the centre of decision‑making and to contribute to a board culture rooted in trust, accountability and collective responsibility.
- Experience in Students’ Unions, higher education or membership organisations is welcome but not essential.
Time commitment
- Attend Trustee Board meetings in person throughout the year; sub‑committee meetings held online via Microsoft Teams.
- Participate in at least one Trustee Board sub‑committee (People & Culture or Commercial & Development).
- Allocate additional time to read reports, financial information and other papers in advance of meetings; complete induction and training as required.
- Commit to a three‑year term, with the possibility of renewal subject to approval.
Benefits
- Step‑free access to all key meeting rooms and bathrooms, and an accessible workstation.
- Accessibility dogs are welcome.
We are a Disability Confident Committed Employer.
Equality and diversity
We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive and fair recruitment process. Applicants with disabilities are welcome to contact us at any stage of the recruitment process to discuss reasonable adjustments or support that may be required.
Timetable
Closing date: 9 a.m. Friday 7th August 2026Candidates informed of outcome: Tuesday 11th August 2026
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