Matthew Pointon
President & National Officer, Nominations Committee Member, People Committee Member
Matt is a full-time trade unionist working for the TUC. His journey with the WEA began with a trade union learning project, partnering with the WEA to provide community education. As his commitment deepened, he joined the West Midlands Regional Committee, eventually becoming their Chair until the committee's dissolution.
He has also served as the Lead Volunteer on the West Midlands Local Advisory Panel. He was a member of the WEA Council before he was elected a regional representative, playing an active role in WEA governance and the organisation's overhaul. As Regional Chair, he prioritised inclusive feedback from tutors, staff, and students, contributing to initiatives like the BBO and the Midlands Engine Project.
His work at the TUC strengthened ties between the WEA and the trade union movement, coordinating strategic partnerships and revenue-generating projects. Matt founded and chaired the Trade Unions Branch, successfully staging events and learning activities while supporting other branches. Matt sits on several WEA board committees and champions diversity in all parts of WEA's governance.
At the WEA annual conference on 1 March 2024 WEA launched the nominations process for individuals to serve as Officers following the retirement of two postholders. The role of Association President was uncontested. In accordance with WEA’s Articles Matt was appointed as a WEA Officer, Trustee and Association President on 1 August 2024.
