Governance Update - A New Trust Corporation

Since the execution of the deed of trust in 1847 the property book and other assets of the Society have been held in trust for the benefit of the members by up to four individuals elected as trustees in accordance with the trust deed and the  Rules, Standing Orders and Schedules of the time.

In 2023 the Society sought specialist legal advice on how it might limit the liability of the trustees given that their individual liability though indemnified was not limited within the legal structure of the Society as an unincorporated association of members.

The option chosen by the Standing Committee was the formation of a company limited by guarantee with Trust Corporation status that would be appointed as the sole corporate trustee of the Society. The company is registered in England and Wales with Companies House. It’s name is Oxford Union Society Trustee Limited.

Following a process of recruitment and appointments the directors of the trust corporation are Tory Frame, Zara McGlone, Jocelyn Ormond, Akaash Maharaj and Jeremy Mayhew.

A series of motions were passed by the membership between Trinity term 2024 and Trinity term 2025 to enable this change. The Trust Corporation will be appointed as the sole corporate trustee during this years long vac so it is in place and functioning for Michaelmas Term 2025.

For information on the governance and operating structures of the Society please contact the Bursar, bursar@oxford-union.org who will be happy to provide further details.