A
union representative,
union steward, or
shop steward is an employee of an organization or company who represents and defends the interests of her/his fellow employees but who is also a
labor union official. members of the union hold this position voluntarily (through
democratic election by fellow workers or sometimes by appointment of a higher union body) while maintaining their role as an
employee of the firm. As a result, the union steward becomes a significant link and conduit of information between the union leadership and rank-and-file workers.