Who does what? A quick guide to how BCFMWU works
Ever wondered who handles grievances, who makes decisions or what your local executive does?
BCFMWU is member-led. That means members choose who represents them and have a say in the work and direction of the union through meetings, elections and participation.
Here’s a quick look at how it works.
Shop stewards
Members who volunteer to support their coworkers at the workplace level are called shop stewards. They’re often your first point of contact if you have questions or concerns.
Shop stewards listen, investigate concerns, document issues and help support members through workplace problems. They may attend meetings with members, take notes, assist with grievances and help connect members with the right union support when needed.
If your employer asks to meet about a problem at work or possible discipline, you can ask a shop steward to come with you. Your shop steward can document what was said in the meeting and support you through the process.
Locals and components
Members belong to a local or component based on their workplace or bargaining unit. Each local or component elects executives to raise workplace concerns and support shop stewards and connect each local to the broader union. Local executives are volunteers who take on these responsibilities in addition to their regular jobs. Their commitment helps keep each local and component connected and well-represented in the union.
Provincial Executive
This is the union’s governing body between conventions, made up of elected representatives from across your union. They meet monthly to raise issues from members, discuss priorities and make decisions between conventions. Executive members take on significant responsibilities and help connect member concerns to union decision-making and priorities throughout the year.
Committees and working groups
These are another way to get involved in your union. These groups give members opportunities to share ideas, raise issues and contribute to projects and areas of work across the union.
Staff and labour relations support
BCFMWU staff support the day-to-day work of the union, including bargaining, member representation, communications, administration and operations.
Labour Relations Officers (LROs) work closely with members and elected leaders on collective agreements, grievances, bargaining and other workplace issues. They also play an important role in member and steward education and help members understand their rights and navigate workplace challenges.
Administrative and operations staff support members and elected leadership through member services, governance and election processes, meeting and event coordination, financial administration and operational support. They help manage the systems and records that keep the union running.
Convention
This is where BCFMWU gets direction from members. Delegates from across the union come together to review the work of the union, debate and vote on union direction, elect leadership positions and help set priorities for the years ahead.
A member-driven union
BCFMWU only exists because members participate. Whether that means attending a local meeting, putting your name forward for an elected position, voting or simply making sure you stay informed, every member plays a role in building a stronger union.
Want to learn more?
