Update from the Board of Trustees meeting

Board effectiveness

The Board previously decided to be appraised externally once every three years in order for its effectiveness as a charity board to be evaluated. Following an external reviewer undertaking observation and surveys back in February, the Board took part in a Board effectiveness workshop, with an external reviewer facilitating this on Wednesday, for the Board to examine some of the initial findings.

A final suite of findings and recommendations will be shared in July.

Financial position

The Union has achieved in a strong financial position so far this financial year, with a £206k year-to-date surplus (£71k ahead of forecast year-to-date) and healthy cash reserves.

Overall performance is positive, with commercial areas performing well, offsetting some weaker commercially-performing areas.

Student facing digital systems and student feedback

Trustees reviewed progress following significant student feedback on student-facing digital systems (e.g. SUMS). Focus has now shifted from consultation to delivering visible improvements, e.g. the SUMS shop functionality.

Planning and priorities for 2026/27

The Board discussed emerging organisational priorities for next year, including plans for next year's budget to be approved in July.

Team’s operational plans will be finalised in the coming months (ready for the new academic year).

Operations and governance

Recruitment of an independent director is planned for the Union's trading subsidiary company (Imperial Union Trading Ltd)'s Board of Directors. This will ideally be someone with commercial experience to provide constructive support and challenge to senior management on the Union's commercial strategy and plans.

We are working towards updating the Partnership Agreement with the University (a document which governs some of the practicalities of our working relationship), and is now requiring sign off by Imperial.

Security and facilities

The Board received an update on discussions with Imperial on roles and responsibilities for security and security systems across the Union's premises.

Elections and governance

The Board received the Leadership Elections 2026 report, providing assurance that the elections held were fair and democratic, which the University Council holds the ultimate burden of responsibility for under the Education Act (1994).
Improvements were identified for next year, and a discussion was held around what the most effective measures of success for elections should be.
The appointment of the second student member of University Council is progressing following the recent recruitment process (final approval is pending University Council Nominations Committee decision in June, and then it can be announced to staff).

Membership and alumni

Early work is underway on a review of associate memberships and alumni engagement, including risks around safeguarding, insurance, and student benefit.