Visionary CEO for Student Voice & Growth

Ysjsu; York and North Yorkshire; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

York St John Students’ Union (YSJSU) is seeking a confident Chief Executive to guide the charity through renewal, strengthening student voice, and a strategic partnership with York St John University.

You will lead with rigour and empathy, build financial sustainability, empower staff, and foster an inclusive culture where every student can participate and thrive.

Experience in a Students’ Union or higher education is welcome; candidates from other mission-driven settings are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• You will be a credible, thoughtful leader who can build trust, make sound decisions and bring clarity during change.
• You will have led teams and managed complex relationships, ideally across organisational boundaries, with financial oversight experience.
• Experience in a Students’ Union or higher education is welcome, but candidates from other charities or purpose-driven settings will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Build an open, constructive and effective relationship with York St John University, while safeguarding the Union’s autonomy.
• Embed equality, diversity and inclusion, removing barriers to engagement and access to services.
• Work with the Chair, trustees and elected Presidents to agree a clear strategy and measurable delivery plan.
• Support staff through change and build an inclusive, confident organisational culture.
• Strengthen financial sustainability and develop income that supports student priorities.

Skills

Senior leadership

Relationship building

Financial acumen

Data insights

Inclusion & representation

Job description

York St John Students’ Union (YSJSU) is seeking a confident Chief Executive to guide the charity through renewal, strengthening student voice, and a strategic partnership with York St John University.

You will lead with rigour and empathy, build financial sustainability, empower staff, and foster an inclusive culture where every student can participate and thrive.

Experience in a Students’ Union or higher education is welcome; candidates from other mission-driven settings are encouraged to apply.