This year, the union will elect its General Secretary to serve from 2025-2030.
Equity's current General Secretary, Paul W Fleming, is standing as the Council's Nominee. Equity members are also entitled to stand for the position, in line with the timetable below. Nominations opened on Monday 13 January and close on Friday 28 February 2025 (12 noon).
How to stand for election
To stand for the position of Equity General Secretary, you must be a current member in benefit and have been a member in benefit for a minimum of five continuous years immediately prior to nomination. You must also have at least 50 nominations from other members in benefit using the Union's nomination form.
If you require a physical nomination paper, please email swinter@equity.org.uk or write to Sam Winter, Equity, FREEPOST RTKS-BRUB-LYJR, Guild House, Upper St Martin’s Lane, London WC2H 9EG (no stamp required).
The independent scrutineer appointed to oversee the election is UK Engage.
Please refer to the nomination form for more information, including the Rules relating to the position of General Secretary. Completed nomination forms or questions should be sent to elections@equity.org.uk.
| Timetable | |
| Monday 13 January 2025 | Nominations open. |
| Friday 28 February 2025 | Nominations close at 12 noon. |
| Tuesday 11 March 2025 | Equity Council receives a report on nominations received. |
| Thursday 20 March 2025 | Ballot opens. Voting papers, election statements and reply-paid envelopes are posted to members. |
| Friday 2 May 2025 | Ballot closes at 12 noon. Completed voting papers must be returned by this date and time. |
| Saturday 10 May 2025 | Result is declared to the Equity Council meeting at Equity Conference and published on the Equity website. |
About the role of General Secretary
The General Secretary is the union's Chief Executive Officer and is responsible to the Council. Under the authority of Council the General Secretary is responsible for the efficient administration and financial management of the union, including its staff. They should be a highly experienced and committed trade unionist who has a dedication to the future of the performing arts and entertainment industries, equalities, workplace justice, and a proven track-record of leading, managing and inspiring others.
They should have a thorough understanding of the key issues affecting Equity's members, and will be able to apply expert knowledge and understanding of strategic industrial, legal, financial and people management matters.
The General Secretary will work with the Council to advance the interests of the Union and its members, including leading high-level negotiations with multi-engager employers, governments, administrations, and other bodies, and delivering member led campaigns.
Full details available on request from elections@equity.org.uk.