External Trusteeopen

Deadline for applications: 3rd August 2025

Inclusive Boards is pleased to be supporting Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Students’ Union in their search for an External Trustee.

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Students’ Union (‘the Union’) is a student-led organisation, committed to enhancing the student experience at Anglia Ruskin University. The Union is both a Charity and a Company Limited by Guarantee, with the object of the advancement of education of students at Anglia Ruskin University for the public benefit by: 

• Promoting the interests and welfare of students at Anglia Ruskin University during their period of study and representing, supporting and advising students.
   
• Being the recognised representative channel between students and Anglia Ruskin University and any other external bodies.
   
• Providing social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities and forums for discussions and debate for the personal development of its students. 

The Union is seeking to recruit an External Trustee to assist the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its governance and oversight responsibilities. ARU Students’ Union has grown in size and scope over recent years, and so too has its responsibility to support an increasingly diverse and dynamic student body. Representing students on six campuses across the East of England and London has prompted the Union to reflect on how it can best meet the needs of students and continue to provide exceptional services and support. 

The Union has listened to our students, staff teams and stakeholders, learned from their experiences, and developed a plan that will drive it forward as an organisation, providing students with greater opportunities for involvement, support, and personal growth. As a Trustee, you will play an essential role in guiding this strategy, ensuring that the Union stays focused on its mission and achieves the goals it has set out. 

You will have the opportunity to contribute your expertise, and perspectives to help shape the future of ARU Students’ Union. Trustees play a crucial and pivotal role at ARU Students’ Union, holding ultimate responsibility, both individually and collectively, for all aspects of the organisation’s activities. The Board of Trustees is entrusted with setting the vision, values, and strategic direction of the organisation, ensuring that its core purpose is consistently delivered.

For this role, you will need to evidence extensive experience in a senior professional financial role, with solid strategic financial management skills. A working knowledge of the rules and regulations governing charity finance and corporate risk management would be advantageous, and a professional accountancy qualification is essential. As it is anticipated that the successful candidate will lead the Finance and Risk Committee, confidence chairing strategic meetings effectively is essential.

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 03/08/2025:

• A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements 
• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role for which you’re applying and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed.
• Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent

To find out more, request support when applying, or have an informal confidential discussion before applying, please get in touch with one of our consultants by emailing ARUSU@inclusiveboards.co.uk or calling 0207 267 8369.