Shop stewards work for you
The shop steward represents employees at the workplace. The shop steward acts as a negotiator, representative, mediator and communicator between employees and the employer.
The shop steward helps employees in all matters related to their employment relationship and always acts confidentially.
What is a shop steward?
A shop steward is a representative elected by employees at the workplace.
A shop steward:
- helps employees with workplace and employment-related issues.
- ensures that terms and conditions of employment are followed.
- negotiates with the employer.
- ensures that employees’ voices are heard.
- supports employees in situations involving changes, disagreements or workplace concerns.
The shop steward also represents the local branch in matters relating to:
- the employer-employee relationship
- corporate development
- local agreements
A shop steward makes the workplace better.
Why is a shop steward important?
Working conditions are better at workplaces that have a shop steward.
A shop steward helps ensure that employees are treated fairly, workplace rules are followed, and employees have a voice in decisions that affect their working lives.
The shop steward does not work alone. The role is built in cooperation with employees, the local union branch, and the Industrial Union.
The Industrial Union supports shop stewards
You do not need to be an expert to become a shop steward.
The Industrial Union provides training, support, advice, and expert assistance for shop stewards. In addition, shop stewards can rely on a network of other employee representatives across Finland.
A shop steward helps make the workplace better for everyone.
This year, employees will elect shop stewards
In November and December 2026, employees at Industrial Union workplaces will elect shop stewards for the next term.
Shop steward elections are an opportunity for employees to choose their own representatives and strengthen their voice at the workplace.
Working conditions are better at workplaces that have a shop steward.