Jo Grady could hardly be better qualified for her new role as the general secretary of the University and College Union (UCU). Born in 1984 into a striking miner's family, Grady has a deep understanding of industrial action and the importance of fair working conditions. Her own family's experiences during the 1984-85 miners' strike have undoubtedly shaped her views on the need for robust trade union representation.
Before her appointment, Grady was a leading expert in trade unions and pension disputes. She studied industrial relations at university, and her work has focused on the ways in which trade unions can effectively negotiate with employers. As the new general secretary of the UCU, Grady will be responsible for representing the interests of the union's 120,000 members.
The UCU has been a vocal critic of the current pension scheme for university staff, arguing that it is unsustainable and does not offer enough protection for members. Grady has previously spoken out against the proposed reforms, which she believes will leave staff with inadequate pensions in retirement. With her background in industrial relations and her experience of negotiating with employers, Grady is well-placed to lead the union's campaign for better pensions and working conditions.
However, Grady's appointment also comes at a time of great uncertainty for the higher education sector. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the sector, with many universities facing significant financial challenges. The UCU has argued that staff should be protected from the worst effects of the pandemic, and that employers should do more to support their employees. With Grady at the helm, the union is likely to be a powerful voice in the debate about the future of higher education.