Trade union official

As a regional trade union official you may:

• advise members and management on legal or health and safety issues
• study and interpret legal policy, agreements and procedures relating to work
• recruit, train and support local officials and shop stewards
• represent union members in negotiations or before industrial court and tribunal proceedings
• deal with local disputes and case work
• work as a learning representative

At the national head office you may:

• develop national policy
• carry out research
• develop learning programmes for members
• work in media relations
• negotiate with employers' organisations, political parties and government
• represent the union at conferences

• knowledge of human resources and employment law
• knowledge of English language
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly
• training with a professional body

With experience, you could become a regional secretary of your union or work at its national head office. You could also move into politics as a councillor or MP.