Green Gown Awards 2017 - The Students’ Union at UWE - Finalist

Within the Students’ Union sector, whilst striving to achieve the same goals, tension can exist between commercial and non-commercial functions of the organisation. Paul has successfully bridged the gap in his role as Commercial Manager (Licensed Trade).

Paul has become a role model, not only for commercial staff members, but for all colleagues to embrace a culture of working in partnership to achieve our vision, and live our organisational values. Paul has successfully created an innovative culture of working that: Engages with students as not only customers but, first and foremost, members of the SU at UWE; and meaningfully engages with our elected student leaders and champions continuous change, even if initially at odds with maximising profit.

Through creating the conditions conducive for change and realising the ideas of our students, tangible impact can be seen for our members, the SU and the local community.

Top 3 learnings:

1 We make more positive action when we take collective responsibility.

2 Working collaboratively with other departments and colleagues enables shared expertise and resource.

3 The passion of students and their ideas not only drives forward meaningful action but also internal cultural change.

CO2t savings 2016/2017: 1.1 tonnes of carbon saved through Vegware use.  Audited

Watch the full video here.