The JMSU Trustee Board is the highest governing body of JMSU. It is responsible for making sure JMSU is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sustainable—so we can continue delivering on our mission to help all LJMU students belong, be heard, and thrive.
The Board ensures that JMSU stays focused on its charitable objectives, complies with relevant laws and regulations, and makes evidence-based decisions that shape the strategic direction of the Union.
The Trustee Board's main responsibilities include:
The Trustee Board is made up of up to 4 External Trustees, up to 4 Student Trustees, and our 4 Executive Officers. The Board is chaired by the President, with an External Trustee serving as Vice Chair.
Executive Officer
Chair of the Trustee Board
JMSU President
Executive Officer
Vice President Education
Executive Officer
Vice President Community & Wellbeing
Executive Officer
Vice President Activities
Student Trustee (Volunteer)
Joeb is a Media Production student who's deeply involved in student life at LJMU. He's part of six societies—including Film and Anime—and plays an active role as a committee member, bringing creativity and energy to the campus community.
Student Trustee (Volunteer)
Sophie is a Psychology student and a passionate member of the student community. She is actively involved in multiple societies and currently serves as Vice President of the Psychology Society.
External Trustee (Volunteer)
Heather is CEO of Open Awards, a National Awarding Organisation and Access Valid Agency supporting learners of all ages. With a strong background in education and the charity sector, she brings expertise in strategy, governance, and inclusion. She was awarded an OBE for services to Further Education in Merseyside.
External Trustee (Volunteer)
Kofi is a senior marketing and communications professional with a strong track record in brand strategy, campaign delivery, and audience engagement. He has worked across commercial and non-profit sectors, using his expertise to build inclusive, impactful messaging and support organisational growth.
External Trustee (Volunteer)
Vice Chair
Mark is an experienced Higher Education consultant, advising universities and students' unions on governance, finance, and strategic planning. With a background in senior leadership and financial management, he brings deep insight into the challenges and opportunities within the HE sector.
External Trustee (Volunteer)
Evans is a finance professional with extensive experience across corporate finance, strategic planning, and business transformation. He has worked in senior roles across both the private and public sectors, bringing a sharp focus on financial sustainability, risk, and operational efficiency.
The Trustee Board typically meets 4 times a year. Summaries or minutes of the meetings are published for transparency and student awareness.
To help the Trustee Board work more effectively, we have a couple of sub-committees that focus on specific areas:-
These smaller groups meet throughout the year and report back to the full Board with updates and recommendations.
Our latest financial statements and annual accounts are available on the Charity Commission website. If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact our CEO, Paul Chapman, at p.chapman@ljmu.ac.uk.
Each year, we recruit Student Trustees to sit on the Board. This is a great opportunity to gain board-level experience, shape the future of your Students’ Union, and make a real difference.
If you're interested in becoming a trustee or want to know more, contact Paul Chapman (CEO) at p.chapman@ljmu.ac.uk.
We are committed to open governance. If you have a question about the Trustee Board or how decisions are made at JMSU, you can get in touch at president@ljmu.ac.uk.