University of Portsmouth Students' Union Culture reviews

The Union has a high turn over of casual staff due to the student population and a high turn over of career staff due to the 'dead end' feeling of roles within the Union. As a student, the Union provides good part time roles with a zero hour contract which allows a work/life balance. However, student staff are not treated with the same respect or gratitude for the work they do compared to their career counterparts. Company culture is a major issue, where gossip culture and a general lack of awareness can be highlighted. Working at the Union is unlike a normal office environment due to a lack of professional behaviour displayed by a minority of staff that persists despite managements attempts to 'train and educate'.I do not feel that over my time at the company major issues that have been highlighted time and time again have been addressed. However, if someone is looking for a short term job or quick employment to bolster their CV, I would recommend the Union just for the potiential training you can get involved with.

Pros

Flexible hours for student and career staff

Cons

Clique and unmanaged company culture, pay is not competitive

Was this review helpful?

Varied but stressful

Student Support (Former Employee) - Portsmouth, Hampshire - 19 July 2022

Lots of hard work with minimal outcome due to lack of student interest and engagement. Cliquey “family” culture. However the projects can be interesting and varied - I would recommend this as a first career to get the skills and experience.

Was this review helpful?

Great Place to Work

Campaign Team Member (Former Employee) - Portsmouth - 14 September 2019

I was only a volunteer for the campaign team, I was there for a year and all the staff were lovely. My tasks were fun and I really enjoyed the year and i would definitely do it again.

Was this review helpful?

Productive and fun workplace

LGBT Officer (Former Employee) - Portsmouth, Hampshire - 6 July 2017

Great team of people and rewarding role. Training provided. Fantastic opportunity for representing and supporting students and helping change the university for the better.

Was this review helpful?

Fun and Engaging Workplace

VP Education and Democracy (Former Employee) - Portsmouth - 4 August 2016

The Students' Union is a fantastic place to work. The support that they provide for their staff is second to none and the training and morale in the workplace is fantastic. My time at the Union allowed me many opportunities to develop and a typical day was never a typical day. All the staff are keen and engaging and love their jobs, which makes it such a fantastic place to work.