Michelle Stanistreet announces she will stand down as NUJ general secretary
“It has been, and continues to be, a privilege to work for the NUJ” says the first woman in the union’s history elected to the post.
At a meeting of the National Union of Journalists’ National Executive Council on 28 June, Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, announced she would be stepping down from her post.
Elected the union’s first woman general secretary, she has led the NUJ in her role since 2011, previously serving as deputy general secretary from 2008-2011.
In a message to members, she said:
“The days when the role of union general secretary was a run-up to retirement are behind us, and with my elections the NUJ’s history of only electing men to the top jobs also came to an end. My response at the time was that I may have been the first woman elected but I certainly wouldn’t be the last.”
Stanistreet referenced campaigns including those on low pay, journalists’ safety, protecting sources, defending public service broadcasting and SLAPPs, as part of work by the union under her leadership. "Whoever I pass the baton on to will be fortunate in leading a union that will always have a special place in my heart." she said.
Stanistreet remains general secretary as she serves her notice period, although her announcement triggers an election process. Members of the NEC expressed their thanks for her commitment to both the union and to members during her time as leader of the union.