MBA Shadow Trustee Scheme
The MBA Shadow Trustee Scheme connects Newcastle University MBA students with charities across the North East. It helps to strengthen boards while offering students valuable real-world experience in governance and leadership.
About the scheme
Our AMBA-accredited Newcastle University MBA programme develops globally aware, socially responsible leaders. It combines academic rigour with practical experience, including:
- leadership and consulting challenges
- immersive business experiences
- global study opportunities
- real-world projects with partner organisations
Developed by Newcastle University Business School, the MBA Shadow Trustee Scheme enables MBA students with significant professional experience to join charity boards as Shadow Trustees for 12 months alongside their studies.
Shadow Trustees:
- attend board and subcommittee meetings
- contribute to strategic discussions
- offer professional insight without taking on legal responsibilities or voting rights
This unique collaboration brings together academic learning, professional expertise, and social impact.
For charities
By taking part, charities gain:
- access to strategic and operational expertise
- fresh perspectives from experienced professionals
- increased diversity of thought, background, and age on their boards
- short-term, low-risk support that can make a long-term difference
For students
For MBA participants, the scheme offers:
- experience of board-level strategy and decision-making
- stronger leadership, communication, and governance skills
- a practical opportunity to apply MBA learning in a socially responsible way
Get involved
The Shadow Trustee Scheme is one of several hands-on opportunities through which MBA students apply their learning to make real impact in the community. For charities, it’s an opportunity to tap into a pipeline of strategic, socially conscious talent.
The Scheme is managed by Newcastle University Business School’s Business Partnerships Team.
If your organisation is interested in hosting a Shadow Trustee or learning more about the scheme, please contact the Business Partnerships Team via email at external.engagement@newcastle.ac.uk