This is your opportunity to direct the work of the Students’ Union meaning you can implement the changes you want to see.
The #BSUElections are back!
It’s that time of year again when we dust off the voting booths and ballot boxes and start preparing for our annual elections. There are so many different leadership positions up for grabs, giving you many opportunities to get involved and make a real change - but with so much on offer, it can be a bit confusing to remember your Sabbatical Officers from your Student Trustees. Luckily, we're on hand to give you all the insight into the #BSUElections and remind you why having your say is so important.
What are the elections for?
These elections decide the Union’s four Sabbatical Officers for the next academic year. The Sabbatical Officers are full-time members of Union staff who lead the direction of the Union and help deliver the high-quality student experience we are so passionate about. These four roles offer the opportunity to direct the work of the Students’ Union meaning you can implement changes you want to see.
Additionally, there are part-time student leadership roles on offer alongside your studies. These include the Student Trustee elections, a unique opportunity to be part of the team driving the strategic direction of the Union as part of the Trustee Board.
Finally, we have Student Reps and club and societies committee elections. Student Reps act as the voice for their class or group and help us understand the student experience, including any changes required or highlighting good practice. Club and society committees lead their club or society and include roles such as Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.
You might be wondering about our Executive Officer positions. We are currently undertaking a restructure of these positions, and therefore they will not be available in this round of elections. However, keep your eyes peeled for the next updates regarding these roles and how you can get involved!
Why are the elections important?
These elections decide who will be the leaders of your Students' Union for the next academic year 2024-25, so it’s essential to have your say and vote for who you want to lead on your priorities and activity for the next academic year. During the elections, each candidate will produce a written manifesto outlining what they would aim to achieve if elected to their chosen position.
Now you get to play judge. Which candidate best represents you and your interests? Who do you think can bring about the most effective change at BNU? This is your opportunity to decide who those people should be, use your vote when voting opens from Monday 4 – Friday 8 March so we can act on behalf of students.
Why should I nominate myself?
Do you think you can help make life better for students at BNU? Can you campaign on students’ behalf to make sure their voice is heard? Can you represent your Students' Union? If the answer is yes, then you should nominate yourself.
To nominate yourself, head to our elections hub and select your chosen role from the menu on the left. From there, log in with your Blackboard details and click ‘Stand in Election’. Follow the steps, add a photo and your manifesto – and you’re ready to go.
Nominations open on Monday 8 January and are open for a few weeks but make sure to nominate yourself before noon on Friday 16 February when they close.
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re intrigued about being a Student Rep, excited about the potential of being a Student Trustee or swayed by a Sabbatical Officer position, it’s time to put yourself forward to lead your Students’ Union and start writing that manifesto.
If you have any questions or want to find out more about the roles on offer contact surepresentation@bnu.ac.uk.