Role of a Trade Union Representative

Trade union representatives help workers understand the union contract and use it wisely.

Trade union representatives work directly with unionized employees. They play a pivotal role between management staff and union members. Representatives are trained to deal with workplace issues, answer company policy questions and maintain harmonious work environments.

Grievance Procedure

Trade union representatives handle employee grievance issues. Some of their duties include submitting a grievance on behalf of an employee, attending employer grievance meetings and debating whether the grievance is warranted.

Conflict Resolution

Trade union representatives listen to employee workplace issues and work toward resolving problems. For example, a union representative might call a meeting with management before filing a grievance on behalf of a union employee.

Information Agent

Trade union representatives act as information agents and, in most cases, can explain every section of the union contract. The job requires educating the employer and the union members on contract stipulations and company policy as they relate to the union.

Collective Bargaining Negotiator

During union contract negotiations, trade union representatives facilitate meetings, supervise the contract-voting process and attend meetings with employers.

References

• Directgov: Trade Union Representatives

Resources

• Coalition of University Employees: Labor Representative Job Description