Leeds University Union (LUU) is run by students, for students…
and now it’s your turn to step up!
The election process might seem a bit daunting, but don’t worry- we’ve got your back.
Here’s everything you need to know to run.
WHAT IS LEADLUU?
LeadLUU is our annual student leadership race, where University of Leeds students can run to become a Student Officer and lead the Union for a year.
Student Officers represent over 40,000 students, help shape the future of LUU, and make student voices heard.
LeadLUU is one of the biggest student elections in the country, and a highlight of campus life.
WHAT’S NEW IN 2026?
More roles. More opportunities. More power.
We’ve made big changes this year to give students even more influence over their Leeds experience.
This year we’re not just electing 6 Student Leaders, we’re electing 16 ROLES in total!
Including full-time, part-time, and voluntary roles!
(click on each role to find out more)
This year you’ll elect:
6 Elected Trustees
5 Full-Time Paid Student Executives & 1 Voluntary PGR Trustee
5 Part-Time Paid Liberation and Identity Engagement Leaders
Support communities and build partnerships
5 Part-Time Paid Faculty Engagement Leaders
Step 1: Nominations
19 January- 16 February
Got what it takes to lead your Union?
Are you passionate about:
Improving student lives at Leeds
Enhancing the academic experience
Shaping the future of the Union
Standing up for student rights
Gaining skills for your future career
If your answer is ‘YES!’ don’t miss this amazing chance to LeadLUU!
Step 2: Becoming a Candidate
Feeling nervous? Don’t be!
We’ll support you every step of the way.
Step 3: Campaigning
11-15 March
Campaigning is your chance to connect with students, make some noise, and show why you’re the one to LeadLUU!
You’ll be promoted by LUU, and be invited along to exciting opportunities to further promote your campaign goals, showing the student body exactly what you stand for.
Tip: Talk to as many students as you can- explore new spaces to reach new people!
Step 4: Voting
16-18 March
Results announced 23 March
This is the time to really give it all you have!
Every moment and every vote counts- so get out there and make your voice heard.
Vote and win your share of £2500+ in incentives!
Including a Macbook, iPads, a Nintendo Switch, and more…
LeadLUU is your chance to shape your Leeds experience, gain leadership skills, and make real change on campus.
Step up. Stand out. Lead your Union!
Common Questions:
I'm not a third-year, can I still run in the election?
Yes!
Any student at the University of Leeds can run in LeadLUU, including international students.
What if I don't win the election?
Don’t worry! Winning is not only positive to the election process- there’s so much more to running in LeadLUU.
-Making new friends
-Experience running a campaign
-Feeling a closer sense of community with the student body
-CV building
How do I win the election?
When running in the LUU elections, it’s important to stay true to yourself and campaign in a way that feels authentic.
Avoid pushing yourself too hard, as being genuine helps voters connect with you.
Developing a strong and supportive campaign team is also essential. A good team can help you generate ideas, create content, and stay motivated throughout the election period.
It’s useful to look at previous candidates on social media by searching buzzwords such as “LUU Officer.”
You can also look at the current Student Executive to see what strategies worked well and how successful campaigns communicated their message.
How much do Student Officers get paid?
Student Executives: £24,815/year (36.5 hours/week, 26 days annual leave + 15 Bank Holidays/closed days).
Part-Time Engagement Leaders: £12.71/hour, 7 hours/week (term-time only).
How does voting work?
LUU uses Single Transferable Vote (STV) to rank candidates in order of preference.
Voting happens online via the LUU website.