Robin Clarke (University of the Arts London: London College of Fashion)

I'm Rob. I stand for a Union that is determined and effective; a force for good that is fuelled by respect and solidarity, care and compassion. 

I have worked in HE for 10+ years in academic, academic-related and professional services roles at both pre- and post-92 institutions: University of Leicester, DMU, and now as an Open Learning Designer at University of the Arts London. I have been a member of UCU since 2012, actively involved in branches for much of that time, serving as ARPS representative for Leicester UCU for several years, including times of local and national disputes. Prior to 2012, I worked for a local authority museum on a decade-long string of precarious contracts.

I have, therefore, broad experience of the issues that face staff in different 'job families', at different types of institution and staff facing precarity, which I believe will be valuable as a member of NEC.

To win our current disputes, NEC needs to be strategic and proactive, but pragmatic and mindful of the impact of industrial action on our members and students as well as employers. We should consider carefully how to deploy our industrial muscle, take steps to recruit more members to increase our workplace density and, therefore, chance of victory.

We must listen to the voices of members and understand what they want from their Union. Members are often overworked and stressed, which can make engaging with union structures difficult and burdensome on top of existing commitments. We need to offer members different ways to engage in union democracy and ensure we hear the voices of as many members as possible. This engagement should include, but move beyond, traditional branch meetings and structures. 

We must ensure that UCU's elected representatives are transparent in, and accountable for, their decision-making. Members should see more of how decisions are made and by whom. I will argue that democracy and transparency in our union needs an overhaul to deliver that accountability.

Central to everything I do is my passion for equality and human rights. Equalities has been a focus of my work for many years. I proudly stand with all those experiencing inequality and discrimination. In particular, non-binary and trans siblings are currently facing an onslaught of vilification and hate. I stand in solidarity with them just as they have always stood with us at the forefront of our LGBTQ+ liberation movement.

For the avoidance of doubt, I support the right of the Ukrainian people to self-determination. I would have voted against Motion 5 at Congress.

I am proud to stand as a member of UCU Commons. I welcome your questions, which you can send to me here:

ucucommons.org/rob