Chair of the Board of Trustees

Lead the Board at the University of the Built Environment and use your experience to shape its future direction, impact and ambition.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 22nd June.
Location: Reading and London
Time commitment: 2-3 days per month

The University of the Built Environment is a specialist institution dedicated to shaping the future of sustainable spaces, places and buildings through accessible, practice-based education.

With our students at the heart of everything we do, we have over 106 years of experience in providing the sector with the highest quality learning opportunities. At any one time, we have more than 4,000 students from over 100 countries benefiting from our qualifications delivered by lecturers who are specialists in their field.

We are now seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees, an accomplished senior leader in the built environment, who is inspired to share their expertise and help shape the University’s future.

About the role
The Board of Trustees provides overall governance, strategic direction and non-executive oversight for the University of the Built Environment, working in close partnership with the Executive Team to ensure the University meets its objectives, as defined by its Royal Charter, and complies with all regulatory requirements. Meeting regularly, the Board contributes to shaping the institution’s long-term vision, with responsibility shared across Independent Trustees, staff and student members, and led by the Chair. The Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding the University’s future, ensuring strong, values-driven governance while maintaining a clear balance between oversight and executive responsibility, with day-to-day operations led by the Vice-Chancellor and Executive Team.

In this role, the Chair fosters a culture of openness, inclusivity and constructive challenge, enabling Trustees to contribute confidently while supporting high standards in governance, educational quality and financial sustainability. They lead and facilitate effective Board and committee meetings, bringing stakeholders together around a shared purpose and vision, and ensuring thoughtful, informed decision-making. The Chair also supports the ongoing development and succession of Trustees, contributing to recruitment processes and, where appropriate, playing a role in senior executive appointments, helping to ensure the continued strength and effectiveness of the University’s leadership.

Who we are looking for
We are looking for an accomplished senior leader with strategic, executive-level experience in organisations connected to the built environment. Recognising the breadth and evolving nature of the sector, we welcome candidates whose expertise spans both established disciplines and emerging areas.

Given the significance of the role, prior board experience, and the ability to chair meetings with confidence, clarity and effectiveness, will be essential.

As Chair, you will be a strong communicator and collaborator, bringing well-tested leadership skills alongside sound judgement and commercial awareness. You will be able to build constructive relationships while maintaining independence of thought, creating an environment where challenge and support go hand in hand.

You will act with integrity and take pride in serving as an ambassador for the University, representing its values both internally and externally.

Above all, you will bring a genuine passion for higher education, underpinned by a strong understanding of governance and a commitment to excellence.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 6th July.

For further information about the role and to register your interest, please visit the Peridot Partners page and contact our advising consultants: https://www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/chair-of-the-board-of-trustees-ube/

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Sophie Carney
Dr Sophie Carney | sophie@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07399 528307

Olivia Robson | olivia@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07903 924770

Join the University of the Built Environment and use your expertise to help guide a forward-thinking institution shaping the future of the built environment.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 6th July
Location: Reading and London
Time commitment: 12-14 days per year

The University of the Built Environment is a specialist institution dedicated to shaping the future of sustainable spaces, places and buildings through accessible, practice-based education.

With our students at the heart of everything we do, we have over 106 years of experience in providing the sector with the highest quality learning opportunities. At any one time, we have more than 4,000 students from over 100 countries benefiting from our qualifications delivered by lecturers who are specialists in their field.

We are now seeking to engage new Independent Trustees to join the Board of the University of the Built Environment, with expertise in higher education and the built environment.

About the role
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance, monitoring and strategic direction of the University of the Built Environment. The Board meets four times per year and provides non-executive oversight of all University activities, contributing to the development of strategy and future vision. It works alongside the Executive Team to ensure that the University achieves the objects defined in the Royal Charter and governing documents and meets all regulatory requirements. The Board is made up of Independent Trustees, staff and student members and is led by the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

As a Trustee of the University of the Built Environment, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of a specialist institution at the forefront of built environment education.

Working collaboratively with fellow Trustees, the Executive Team and the incoming Chair, you will help guide the University with insight, integrity and a shared sense of purpose, supporting both opportunity and challenge as the institution continues to evolve.

In addition to your role on the Board, you will contribute to the work of two sub-committees, supporting a deeper focus and effective governance across key areas.

Who we are looking for
We are seeking to appoint new Trustees who bring senior-level experience from higher education or the built environment sector, and who can apply their expertise to the work of the Board with confidence and impact.

We are especially keen to engage interest from those who bring the following experience/expertise:

All areas of the built environment, including our growing provision in planning and architecture.
Higher education: academic profile in the built environment, apprenticeships, or regulations and compliance.
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about the University of the Built Environment and motivated to play an active and constructive role in its governance; coming to meetings well-prepared and ready to contribute thoughtful challenge, strategic insight and meaningful support to decision-making.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Sophie Carney
Dr Sophie Carney | sophie@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07399 528307

Olivia Robson | olivia@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07903 924770

Join the University of Portsmouth Students’ Union as an External Trustee or Deputy Chair and help shape its next chapter of governance and strategy.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 3rd June.

Time commitment: Approximately one day per month

About the organisation

The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union (UPSU) is a dynamic, values-led organisation with a clear mission: to have a positive impact with every Portsmouth student. Representing around 28,000 students, UPSU plays a vital role in supporting student voice, development and well-being.

About the role

We are now seeking to appoint an External Trustee and an External Trustee who will also take on the role of Deputy Chair. Following a recent governance review, the Union is now moving into the next phase of embedding and strengthening how the Board operates, creating a genuine opportunity for new Trustees to shape governance from the outset.

At the same time, UPSU is preparing to launch a new, membership-focused strategy. These appointments will play a key role in supporting its implementation, ensuring the organisation remains focused, effective and delivering impact for students.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking individuals who can bring senior-level insight, strong governance understanding and a collaborative approach to a developing Board. This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully at a pivotal time, supporting both governance development and the next phase of strategy.

You will be motivated by the opportunity to add real value, working closely with the Chair and Chief Executive while supporting a team of elected student leaders.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 3rd June.

For further information about the role and to register your interest, please visit the Peridot Partners page and contact our advising consultants: https://www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/deputy-chair-and-trustee-upsu/

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Conor Naughton
Conor Naughton | conor@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07498 071852

Oxford Brookes is one of the UK’s leading modern universities, known for its bold leadership and innovation in education and research. The University boasts a distinctively inclusive, enterprising, and forward-thinking culture. By committing to accessible education and conducting research that addressed the problems of today and tomorrow we equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, mindset, and attributes needed to thrive in a complex, uncertain world.

Our University community comprises more than 17,500 students from around 240 countries and over 2,800 staff members. We are wholly committed to social mobility, inclusivity, widening access, and civic impact. Rooted in and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning, we sit at the heart of a thriving enterprise and innovation hub. We have invested significantly in our estate and continue to consolidate all our Oxford-based activities around our central Headington Campus to shape a vibrant, dynamic, and sustainable interdisciplinary environment.

We are seeking to appoint four external Board Governors with expertise across a variety of different domains, including but not limited to technology, law, strategy/corporate affairs and tertiary education. Applications from individuals with connectivity to the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor would also be welcome. More broadly, the successful candidates will possess the requisite qualifications and executive-level experience to add significant value at Board-level. They will also possess the intellectual capacity, commercial acumen, and strategic expertise to act as critical friends and support our new Vice-Chancellor and her Executive Team as they drive forward our refreshed institutional ambitions.

The higher education sector is facing a period of unprecedented change and opportunity, making the role of the Board of Governors more important than ever. If you share our passion and possess the skills and qualities we seek, we would be keen to hear from you.

For further information on this exciting position, including details of how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/95814

Closing date: Friday 29th May 2026.

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

 

 

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is seeking an outstanding individual to join our Council as an Independent Member and to serve as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. This is a key governance role at an important moment for the RVC as we launch our new strategic plan.

The University has a dedicated workforce of over 1100 employees based mainly at our Camden campus in London and at our modern and vibrant Hawkshead campus in rural Hertfordshire.

The RVC has a unique, rich heritage of innovation and leadership in veterinary medicine and science. We offer world-class undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, and biomedical sciences to a vibrant community of over 2,500 students from more than 70 countries. Our commitment to excellence extends to our CPD programmes and our collaborative, inclusive working culture

About the Role

As an Independent Member of Council, you will help shape the strategic direction of the RVC, ensure strong governance, and support the Senior Executive Team. You will contribute to performance oversight, legal and financial compliance, stakeholder engagement and advocacy for the RVC’s mission.

As Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, you will provide leadership in audit, assurance and risk management. You will set the Committee’s work programme, oversee internal and external audit activity, review key risks, ensure high standards of governance and compliance, and report clearly to Council.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

– Senior-level experience in finance, accounting or audit.
– A recognised professional accounting qualification (strongly preferred).
– Experience operating at board or committee level in complex organisations.
– A strong understanding of risk management and assurance.
– Excellent judgement, communication skills and the ability to provide constructive challenge.
– A collaborative approach and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
– Interest in higher education or the veterinary sector is desirable, as is experience in regulated or publicly accountable environments.

The University particularly welcomes applicants who can help increase the gender and ethnic diversity of our Council.

Time Commitment

Council meets four times per year, and the Audit and Risk Committee meets three to four times per year. The total commitment is approximately 10–12 days annually. Independent Members may serve up to three three‑year terms.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Laura Witt, University Secretary
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: governance@rvc.ac.uk.

Or direct link to the advert on RVC site – ULR below

Text
Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee & Independent Member of Council
Professional Services
Location: Hawkshead (nr Potters Bar, Herts) / Camden (Kings Cross, London)
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Monday 25 May 2026
Reference: PSD-0103-26
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is seeking an outstanding individual to join our Council as an Independent Member and to serve as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. This is a key governance role at an important moment for the RVC as we launch our new strategic plan.

The University has a dedicated workforce of over 1100 employees based mainly at our Camden campus in London and at our modern and vibrant Hawkshead campus in rural Hertfordshire.

The RVC has a unique, rich heritage of innovation and leadership in veterinary medicine and science. We offer world-class undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, and biomedical sciences to a vibrant community of over 2,500 students from more than 70 countries. Our commitment to excellence extends to our CPD programmes and our collaborative, inclusive working culture

About the Role

As an Independent Member of Council, you will help shape the strategic direction of the RVC, ensure strong governance, and support the Senior Executive Team. You will contribute to performance oversight, legal and financial compliance, stakeholder engagement and advocacy for the RVC’s mission.

As Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, you will provide leadership in audit, assurance and risk management. You will set the Committee’s work programme, oversee internal and external audit activity, review key risks, ensure high standards of governance and compliance, and report clearly to Council.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

Senior-level experience in finance, accounting or audit.
A recognised professional accounting qualification (strongly preferred).
Experience operating at board or committee level in complex organisations.
A strong understanding of risk management and assurance.
Excellent judgement, communication skills and the ability to provide constructive challenge.
A collaborative approach and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Interest in higher education or the veterinary sector is desirable, as is experience in regulated or publicly accountable environments. The University particularly welcomes applicants who can help increase the gender and ethnic diversity of our Council.

Time Commitment

Council meets four times per year, and the Audit and Risk Committee meets three to four times per year. The total commitment is approximately 10–12 days annually. Independent Members may serve up to three three‑year terms.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: governance@rvc.ac.uk.

Applicants must submit their application using the ‘Apply Online’ button below, and must attach a cover letter to their application detailing briefly their interest and how they meet the requirements for the role, and attach an up-to-date CV.

Further details: Candidate Pack
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Apply Online
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We promote equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

governance@rvc.ac.uk
governance@rvc.ac.uk

Help shape the future of Buckinghamshire New University – join us as an Independent Member of Council

BNU is a modern university, with a proud 130-year heritage of transforming our students’ lives.

We’re looking to appoint a new Independent (lay) Member to our University Council – the governing body responsible for shaping the educational character and strategic direction of BNU. Our governing body plays a vital role in ensuring accountability across all aspects of university life. It oversees financial probity, employment policy and the corporate frameworks that guide how we operate. You’ll help shape decisions that influence thousands of students, staff and partners, ensuring BNU continues to deliver real social and economic impact.

Now is an especially exciting time to be joining the University Council. It’s a pivotal moment for BNU. In spring 2026 we’ll launch our new strategic framework focused on delivering outstanding student outcomes, growing our research impact, developing talent and building a future-ready university.

We’re especially interested to hear from candidates with experience in entrepreneurship, innovation, and start-ups.

For further information or to arrange an informal chat about the role, please contact Dr Emma Tomsett, Clerk to the Council and Head of Governance and Compliance.

To apply, submit your CV and covering letter by 9 January 2026 to Dr Emma Tomsett.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Dr Emma Tomsett
Emma.Tomsett@bnu.ac.uk

Chair of the Board of Governors – The University of Winchester

The University of Winchester is a confident and ambitious institution, aiming to provide transformational education and excellence in teaching and research. Our longstanding mission endures – to educate, to advance knowledge, and to serve the common good. Each year, thousands of students graduate from the University’s programmes, on their path towards rewarding and enriching careers.

As the term of the current role holder approaches its end, the University is seeking a new Chair of the Board of Governors, to help lead the University into its next chapter. This is an important and prestigious strategic leadership role, for a large employer, and anchor institution within the City of Winchester and surrounding areas.

The role of the Chair is wide and varied. From guiding the strategic direction of the University, through to monitoring performance and maintaining robust standards of governance – this is a role where you can really make a difference! The Chair, alongside other members of the Board, also acts as an important ambassador for the University at external events.

The ideal candidate will be a proven and experienced senior-level leader, with a track record of working with non-executive and executive teams, including in areas such as strategic planning, performance assessment and financial oversight. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and an understanding of the higher education sector are also essential.

The overall time commitment for this role is approximately thirty days per year (with at least ten of these being in-person at our Winchester Campus). This is an appointment of a public service nature and is therefore not remunerated. However, reasonable expenses to cover travel and other direct expenses will be reimbursed.

Application is through submission of a CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is 5pm on 03 December 2025.

The successful candidate will commence as Chair from the start of the 26/27 academic year, with some involvement with the University during the current academic year, to ensure a smooth and thorough transition.

For more information about the role, including how to apply, please see the attached Candidate Information Pack, or email Kerry Bowers (kerry.bowers@winchester.ac.uk), People & Culture Operations Services Manager, directly.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Kerry Bowers
Kerry.Bowers@winchester.ac.uk

About Canterbury Christ Church University
For more than 60 years, Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has been a big part of the Kent community, providing education which makes a real and positive difference to people’s lives, welcoming students from all faiths and none. With over 1,500 staff, the University offers a wide range of programmes to over 30,000 students. As well as meeting the business and employment needs of regional employers and beyond, the University is a widening participation institution.

The impact of its research and enterprise is felt nationally and internationally as recognised by the recent national Research Excellence Framework and the Knowledge Exchange Framework. The Sunday Times Good University Guide for 2026 has revealed Canterbury Christ Church University is in the top 10 in the UK for teaching quality and student experience. It is also one of the largest providers of education, training and skills to public service in the South East. The University’s largest campus is in the centre of the historic city of Canterbury. The Canterbury campus sits at the heart of a World Heritage site and close to Canterbury Cathedral. In the past decade, the University has invested over £100m in facilities, including opening the Verena Holmes building, an award-winning building for science, technology, engineering, health and medicine, and the Daphne Oram building, a creative arts and cultural hub, on the Canterbury Campus. The award winning Augustine House, situated close to Canterbury City Centre, provides first class Library and Learning Resources for the academic community. The other campuses, all offering high quality facilities, are located at Medway and Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Following a period of significant growth and diversification through a range of partners, a new medical school (Kent and Medway Medical School), CCCU will now be looking to expand its post-graduate provision as well as its online offering. With an exciting future ahead with its strategy Vision 2030 and a stable financial position (£356m turnover and with a surplus), the University is on a major transformation journey, streamlining its academic structure as well as its corporate services function and reviewing digital systems and processes to enhance impact whilst reducing its costs. Looking ahead, innovation, diversification and cost control will be key priorities for CCCU as it navigates through uncertain times for the higher education sector.

Role specification
The Governing Body of Canterbury Christ Church University is responsible for determining the educational character & mission of the University and has oversight of its activities.

Specific Responsibilities:
-The determination of the educational character and mission of the University including the approval of the University’s Strategic Plan and the approval of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
-The approval of the annual estimates of income and expenditure
-Ensure the solvency of the University and the safeguarding of its assets
-The appointment or dismissal of the Vice-Chancellor, the Clerk to the Governing Body, the Chaplain and other such senior posts designated by the Governing Body
-Ensure that there are suitable arrangements for appraisal of the Vice-Chancellor’s performance
-The varying or revoking of the Instrument or Articles of Government (subject to provisions within those documents regarding the Archbishops’ Council)
-Ensure compliance with Company and Charity law, and in particular the duties of Directors under the Companies Act 2006
-Receive and approve annual accounts (financial statements) after they have been audited by the external auditors, and for forwarding the external auditors’ management letter
-Approve the constitution of the student body (Students’ Union) and receive the audited accounts of that body on an annual basis
-Approve the University’s Risk Management Framework, Risk Register and Risk Appetite Statement
-Review its own effectiveness and performance and that of its Committees, both in depth at regular intervals, and with a ‘light touch’ annually
-Regularly monitor the performance of the University against its planned strategies and operational targets including those contained in approved KPIs
-Review its terms of reference and work plan annually

Person specification
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) seeks to appoint a new Governor to act as a critical friend, bring advice, scrutiny, sound judgement and constructive challenge to the Governing Body and Executive team. The University seeks to recruit a new Governor who will have extensive digital / technology experience at senior level to provide guidance and advice to the wider Board and executive team on the digital strategy of CCCU. They will bring a willingness to be challenging but constructive.

The successful candidate will bring experience in senior strategic leadership roles in IT / technology and will have some digital transformation experience. They may have operated in any sector but will ideally have experience from similarly sized / complex organisations. Individuals will bring a broad organisational perspective and could also come from a senior digital consultancy background. Though previous experience in the higher education sector isn’t necessary, candidates will bring an understanding of the challenges facing the sector and have an appreciation for its highly regulated nature. The University is open to hearing from first time non-executives who can demonstrate an understanding of the nuances between an executive and non-executive role.

Above all, candidates will bring a commitment to the University’s mission of pursuing excellence in higher education: transforming individuals, creating knowledge, enriching communities and building a sustainable future. In addition, they will have sympathy with the University’s Anglican Foundation.

Please do not contact this organisation directly. Instead, if you know someone at the organisation, please mention it in your Reason for Application. Nurole members who do not respect this may risk having their membership terminated and account closed.

Board composition
To find out more about the Governing Body and its Governors, please see here.

Diversity
Canterbury Christ Church University welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or disability. The University is proud that it already has a diverse Board. To maintain this, the University particularly welcomes applications from women, Black, Asian, and other minority ethnic candidates. The University also welcomes expressions of interest from members of the Church of England in view of its Anglican Foundation status. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

Terms of appointment
This role is unremunerated, and reasonable, pre-agreed domestic travel expenses and and childcare costs will be reimbursed. There will be four Governing Body meetings and three to four Committee meetings annually, which are all held in person in Canterbury or Medway. The appointment is for a four-year term, which can be renewed at the discretion of the Board.

Location: As meetings are held in person, individuals will be UK-Based and will be in a commutable distance to Canterbury.

Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on 31st October.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Canterbury Christ Church University  is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist on this appointment. If you’d like to view the full spec click here.

If you’d like to informally find out more about the role please contact Brigitte Stundner, brigitte.stundner@nurole.com

As the governing body of the University for the Creative Arts, the Board of Governors has overall responsibility for all of the University’s activities. The Board is accountable for the financial solvency of the University, its sound management, and the quality of the service which it provides; it is also accountable for the proper use of the public funds entrusted to it. The Board determines the strategic direction of the University’s development, and the strategic direction should inform its decisions in exercising its powers and undertaking its duties. The Board is not involved in the day-to-day management of the University but establishes and maintains the framework within which it operates.

The Board’s duties are defined in the University’s Articles of Government. These include:

– Determining the educational character and mission of the University and overseeing its activities
– The effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of the University and safeguarding its assets
– Approving annual estimates of income and expenditure
– Setting the framework for the pay and conditions of service of staff
– The appointment of external auditors

As UCA looks to deliver on its transformation agenda and with succession planning in mind, it is seeking two new Governors with senior financial leadership expertise to ensure the University remains in a financially sound position and resilient for the future.

Candidates will ideally bring a chartered accountant qualification and they will have current or recent strategic financial and accounting experience. Audit experience would also be welcome and exposure to HR could be beneficial but is by no means essential. Candidates can come from the commercial, public or non-profit sectors and ideally will have experience in similar sized organisations. Change management / transformation experience would be advantageous.

Candidates will have an affinity for the higher education and / or the creative industries sectors. Previous board experience isn’t necessary as long of candidates can demonstrate an understanding of the nuances between an executive and non-executive role.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
University for the Creative Arts is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find new Governors (Finance). You can find out more and apply here https://app.nurole.com/roles/67bc473cbf28ca0019a11abf To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

What will you be doing?
About Us:
East Coast College, with campuses in Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth, offers a diverse range of subjects and professional training for school leavers and adults up to degree level.
About the Governor Role:
Governors support, challenge, and help the College achieve its strategic objectives. Board experience is not required—your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for our goals and values are what matter most.
Time Commitment:
Meetings are usually a couple of hours on Tuesday mornings. We have 5 Full Board meetings, 4 Committee meetings, and 1 Full Away Day each year, with a minimum attendance target of 80%.
Associate Governor:
If you can’t commit to a full governor role, bring your specialist knowledge to one of our committees (People, Finance, Quality) with about 4 meetings a year.
Annual Commitment:
Beyond meetings, Governors participate in:
• Learning Walks, celebrations, and meetings with staff and students.
• Strategic planning.
• Self-assessment and review of the College, Corporation, yourself, and the Chair.
• Training sessions and reading briefing documents.
• Providing feedback and suggesting improvements.
• Acting as advocates for the College in the community.
We need Governors who can live our values and become part of ‘Team ECC.’
Our Values
Aspirational – Being supportive, exploring potential and challenging ourselves daily.
Respectful – Acting with compassion, being inclusive, and welcoming others in our learning community and to our environment.
Professional – Putting team first, acting with integrity, developing our expertise and having a focused work ethic.
Successful – Determining our ambition, achieving excellence and continually raising standards.

What are we looking for?
Skills in need:
If you are interested please get in touch whatever your skill set
We are also looking for those with skills and knowledge in areas such as:
• Education
• SEND
• Safeguarding
• Finance
• Audit
• Estate Development
• Strategic/Business Planning
• People/HR
• Chairing

What difference will you make?
Why become a governor?
Team ECC’s Board supports the College team in making a significant and lasting impact on education and the community we serve.
This is an exciting time to join the Board as we have refreshed and refocused our strategy. We have several exciting projects in development, including the redevelopment of our Great Yarmouth campus. We are proud to be rated Ofsted Good and maintain good financial health.
As a Governor, you will gain valuable experience in governance and leadership while collaborating with other dedicated individuals who share a passion for education and the region.
Here are the key responsibilities:
• Strategic Oversight: Developing the college’s strategy and goals.
• Accountability: Holding the team accountable for the educational performance and quality of the college.
• Financial Stewardship: Ensuring effective control over funds and assets, maintaining solvency, and meeting legal obligations.
• Advocacy: Acting as advocates for the college within the wider community.
• Participation: Engaging in activities such as learning walks, celebrations, strategic planning, and self-assessment.
• Commitment to Values: Promoting equality, diversity, and quality standards

To apply:
Covering letter setting out reasons and a CV

Please note this a voluntary role with reasonable expenses paid.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Wendy Stanger
Contact for discussion
Wendy Stanger BA (Hons) PGDip ACMA FCG Award FEGP Cert FEGP
Director of Governance
East Coast College Corporation
East Coast College
Direct Telephone: 01502 525099
w.stanger@eastcoast.ac.uk

University Governor: Chair of Risk and Audit Committee

The University of Winchester is a confident and ambitious institution, providing a transformative educational experience through excellence in teaching and research and championing student success across a broad subject portfolio.

Due to the end of term of the current incumbent, the University is seeking a new Governor, to join the Board of Governors, and additionally act in the capacity of Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee. Governors are appointed for an initial term of three years.

The Board of Governors are responsible for the overall governance of the University, including assurance that the conditions of registration set by the Higher Education regulator are being met. The Board of Governors act in a non-executive capacity and are not involved in day-to-day operations. In addition to duties expected of all University Governors, the Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee also plays a key role in risk management, assurance of financial accounting and statutory reporting, and ensures oversight of internal and external audit activities.

The University are seeking applicants with proven experience of audit, risk management and/or finance, ideally in higher education (or with knowledge of the sector). Given the non-executive nature of the role, a proven experience of working effectively with executive/ leadership teams is also essential.

The University is passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion, and so welcomes applicants with a similar passion, and applications from all groups within Society.

The overall time commitment for this position is approximately twenty-five days per year (a mix of face-to-face and online/remote meetings). This is appointment is of a public service nature and is therefore not remunerated. Reasonable expenses to cover travel and other direct expenses will be reimbursed.

For more information about the role, including how to apply, please see the attached Candidate Information Pack, or email Kerry Bowers (kerry.bowers@winchester.ac.uk), Senior People & Culture Operations Services Advisor.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 11 February 2025.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Kerry Bowers
Kerry.Bowers@winchester.ac.uk

Oriel College is seeking to recruit two Expert Members to the Audit Committee.

Expert Members are those with relevant specialist knowledge to offer advice and scrutiny in the areas of governance, risk management, financial reporting and the not-for-profit / charity sector.

The Audit Committee consists of four external members and one member of the Governing Body who is not part of the executive management of the College. In addition, College Officers also attend the meetings: Provost, Treasurer, and Financial Controller.

– The Audit Committee exists to review, on behalf of the College, the effectiveness of:
– External audit
– The College financial statements
– Internal controls, including management and operational controls
– General financial governance
– The College’s systems for identifying and managing risk – the Audit Committee will have close links with the Risk Committee
– The College’s systems for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory obligations
– The processes for ensuring long-term stability of the College

They will bring strong commercial acumen, act as a critical friend, challenge constructively and mitigate risks.

The successful candidates will bring a senior leadership experience in internal and external auditing and significant financial reporting. They will ideally bring experience in the commercial or financial services sectors. The successful candidate will understand risk management, including its link to good governance and decision-making. Exposure to the third sector would be desirable but is by no means essential. Previous Committee experience would be seen as advantageous but above all, they will bring energy, enthusiasm and a strong interest in higher education. Candidates will also bring:

– Proven interpersonal and communication skills, including critical listening and the ability to ask probing question

– The ability and confidence to hold to account the College’s officers and representative of internal and external auditing

– A commitment to high standards of governance and probity and the ability to operate in accordance with the Charity
Governance Code and the Nolan Principles.

This role is unremunerated, and reasonable, pre-agreed domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed. There will be two in-person Committee meetings annually which take place in October and March / April. There will also be ad hoc engagement in between meetings. The term is for four years, with a maximum of two terms.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
Oriel College is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find new Audit Committee Expert Members. You can find out more and apply here: https://app.nurole.com/roles/675c436aed75346bc9c65951

To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com

The University Council is the governing body which contributes to the development of the University and plays an important part in shaping, determining and championing the University’s strategy and acts as an advocate for every member of staff and the student community. The Council has responsibility for the administration of the University, for managing its resources, and for supporting and guiding the senior management in the delivery of the strategy and achieving its bold ambitions.

As a Lay Member, you will contribute to the Council helping to ensure that the University’s senior management team are working effectively and in collaboration, you will be collectively responsible for overseeing the performance of the University and providing challenge, support and advice while respecting executive responsibility.

You will act as an ambassador for the University and represent it externally, contributing to its success as a member of various committees, which play key roles in the detailed governance and oversight of the University, such as Pension, Finance, Estates, and Infrastructure, and Remuneration Committees.
There are currently six Sub-Committees of Council:

– Nominations and Governance Committee
– Pensions Committee
– Remuneration Committee
– Audit and Risk Committee
– Finance Committee
– Estates and Infrastructure Committee

This individual is likely to join the Finance Committee.

As required by the Office for Students, all Council Members shall meet the “fit and proper person” test for members of the governing body of a registered provider of higher education.

Due to rotation on the Board, Francesca Barnes will be stepping down in July 2025 and the University of Southampton is therefore looking for a new Council Member with a finance background to strengthen the financial expertise on the Council. This person will bring scrutiny and advice to the executive team and wider Council and its Committees. They will be a sounding board, will be forward-thinking, have the ability to challenge constructively and influence decisions. They will help the University navigate through a challenging time for the sector.

The new Council Member will bring solid financial leadership experience and will have great attention to detail regarding various financial matters. They will ideally have Director / C-Suite level experience with financial planning and budgeting responsibility as well as risk mitigation in organisations of similar size or complexity. Candidates do not need to be a qualified accountant and though previous non-executive experience would be beneficial, this is not a requirement for the role. The successful candidate will bring strong commercial acumen and could have operated in either the private, public or non-profit sectors, ideally bringing a breadth of experience across more than one sector.

Above all, individuals will bring a commitment to the vision and values of the University which are: equality, transformational leadership, agility, collaboration and environmental sustainability. As women and those from an ethnic minority background are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from these individuals would be particularly encouraged.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
The University of Southampton is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find a new Council Member (Finance / Commercial). You can find out more and apply here: https://app.nurole.com/roles/67375fefb5b23c68f8dc8055. To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

St Peter’s College is one of thirty-nine self-governing, independent colleges in the University of Oxford. St Peter’s was founded in 1929. Part of its founding mission was to help widen access to the University of Oxford. It was granted full collegiate status in 1961 and it first admitted women as students of the College in 1979. It is therefore currently approaching the centenary of its founding and the 50-year anniversary of going co-ed. As a registered charity, its regulator is the Charity Commission.

The College community is comprised of the Master, c.70 Fellows and academic tutors across subjects, c.95 members of administrative and domestic staff, c.600 students (350 undergraduate students; 250 postgraduate students) and c.25 Visiting Students. It offers an informal and supportive working environment.

It is an open, tolerant and creative academic community with a reputation for friendliness, informality, inclusiveness and scholarly excellence. Academics and students from many different backgrounds and countries mix comfortably across many different aspects of College life and work.

St Peter’s College is located in the centre of Oxford. Its estate is an attractive mix of old and new buildings from across periods. The College has just completed a major building project, delivering a new quad with two new student accommodation buildings, a new courtyard and a new entrance to College. As its centenary approaches in 2029, now is a really exciting time to be joining.

Further information about the College’s life may be found here: www.spc.ox.ac.uk

Role specification:

St Peter’s is looking to recruit an external Chair to its Audit, Risk and Remuneration Committee (ARRCo). The successful candidate will provide an independent perspective as the Chair of the Committee and guide other members of the Committee in carrying out their duties. The Committee is tasked with scrutinising, advising and assuring the work of the College in a range of areas, while setting the parameters for responsible operating in others. The Committee and its Chair operate as critical friends to the senior leadership of the College.

Main duties of the Audit, Risk and Remuneration Committee:

– Oversee and provide assurances on the College’s policies, procedures and systems for the identification and reduction of risk, including the proper use of resources (including public funds)
– Review the Annual Report and Accounts, and recommend them to the Governing Body. Also to consider the auditors’ management report and whether remedial action needs to be taken
– Assess whether the external audit is efficient and effective
– Undertake an annual review of salaries and allowances not set by external bodies, and make recommendations to the Governing Body
– Undertake, commission or take part in specific reviews, either as requested by the Governing Body or as it sees fit

Person specification:

St Peter’s is looking for a new Chair of its Audit, Risk and Remuneration Committee who will provide scrutiny, helping to ensure the College’s financial sustainability for the future and mitigating financial and reputational risk. They will be collaborative, have strong communication skills and be collegial. They will be strategic in their approach, have a big picture mindset and challenge in a constructive manner.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a solid track record in risk mitigation. Though experience in corporate governance and risk standards could come from a range of sectors, having some exposure to the charitable or education sectors would be desirable. In addition, having experience in estates / property development / construction or HR (Employee and Remuneration issues, for example) would be beneficial but is by no means essential.

Above all, candidates will have a strong interest and commitment to higher education and an understanding of the values, ethos and traditions of a collegiate university and of a forward-thinking College within that tradition. St Peter’s is an equal opportunities employer that welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
St Peter’s College, Oxford is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find a new Chair of Audit, Risk and Remuneration Committee. You can find out more and apply here https://app.nurole.com/roles/6733598fb799d3001aa422ab To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

For more than 60 years, Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has been a big part of the Kent community, providing education which makes a real and positive difference to people’s lives, welcoming students from all faiths and none. With 1,800 staff, the University offers a wide range of programmes to its 26,000 students. As well as meeting the business and employment needs of regional employers and beyond, the University is a widening participation institution.

The impact of its research and enterprise is felt nationally and internationally as recognised by the recent national Research Excellence Framework and the Knowledge Exchange Framework. It has one of the best employability records for students in the UK and was ranked number one in the 2023 national employability survey. It is also one of the largest providers of education, training and skills to public service in the South East. The University’s largest campus is in the centre of the historic city of Canterbury. The Canterbury campus sits at the heart of a World Heritage site and close to Canterbury Cathedral. In the past decade, the University has invested over £100m in facilities, including opening the Verena Holmes building, an award-winning building for science, technology, engineering, health and medicine, and the Daphne Oram building, a creative arts and cultural hub, on the Canterbury Campus. The award winning Augustine House, situated close to Canterbury City Centre, provides first class Library and Learning Resources for the academic community. The other campuses, all offering high quality facilities, are located at Medway and Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Following a period of significant growth and diversification through a range of partners, a new medical school (Kent and Medway Medical School), CCCU will now be looking to expand its post-graduate provision as well as its online offering. With an exciting future ahead with its strategy Vision 2030 and a stable financial position (£300m turnover and with a surplus), the University is on a major transformation journey, streamlining its academic structure as well as its corporate services function and reviewing digital systems and processes to enhance impact whilst reducing its costs. Looking ahead, innovation, diversification and cost control will be key priorities for CCCU as it navigates through uncertain times for the higher education sector.

Role specification:

The Governing Body of Canterbury Christ Church University is responsible for determining the educational character & mission of the University and has oversight of its activities.

Specific Responsibilities:

– The determination of the educational character and mission of the University including the approval of the University’s Strategic Plan and the approval of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
– The approval of the annual estimates of income and expenditure
– Ensure the solvency of the University and the safeguarding of its assets
– The appointment or dismissal of the Vice-Chancellor, the Clerk to the Governing Body, the Chaplain and other such senior posts designated by the Governing Body
– Ensure that there are suitable arrangements for appraisal of the Vice-Chancellor’s performance
– The varying or revoking of the Instrument or Articles of Government (subject to provisions within those documents regarding the Archbishops’ Council)
– Ensure compliance with Company and Charity law, and in particular the duties of Directors under the Companies Act 2006
– Receive and approve annual accounts (financial statements) after they have been audited by the external auditors, and for forwarding the external auditors’ management letter
– Approve the constitution of the student body (Students’ Union) and receive the audited accounts of that body on an annual basis
– Approve the University’s Risk Management Framework, Risk Register and Risk Appetite Statement
– Review its own effectiveness and performance and that of its Committees, both in depth at regular intervals, and with a ‘light touch’ annually
– Regularly monitor the performance of the University against its planned strategies and operational targets including those contained in approved KPIs
– Review its terms of reference and work plan annually

Person specification:

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) seeks to appoint two Governors to act as a critical friend, bring advice, scrutiny, sound judgement and constructive challenge to the Governing Body and Executive team.

Due to rotation on the Board, the University seeks to recruit two new Board members who have experience at top management level in large complex organisations, who are available to commence the role on 1 August 2025. Applications are welcomed from individuals with board and senior leadership expertise. Experienced C-Suite level individuals from large complex organisations will be considered. The successful candidates will have ideally operated in organisations of similar size and complexity and will bring a genuine interest in higher education. Though previous experience in the higher education sector isn’t necessary, candidates will bring an understanding of the challenges facing the sector and have an appreciation for its highly regulated nature. Previous Committee or Board experience is highly desirable but the University is open to hearing from first time non-executives who can demonstrate an understanding of the nuances between an executive and non-executive role.

Above all, candidates will bring a commitment to the University’s mission of pursuing excellence in higher education: transforming individuals, creating knowledge, enriching communities and building a sustainable future. In addition, they will have sympathy with the University’s Anglican Foundation.

Diversity:

Canterbury Christ Church University welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or disability. The University is proud that it already has a diverse Board. To maintain this, the University particularly welcomes applications from women, Black, Asian, and other minority ethnic candidates. The University also welcomes expressions of interest from members of the Church of England in view of its Anglican Foundation status. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
Canterbury Christ Church University is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find new Governors. You can find out more and apply here https://app.nurole.com/roles/672e38c69b927a14c63fdcea To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

Are you a senior strategic leader with expertise in finance or audit, estates and property, or higher education, seeking an opportunity to contribute your skills and time to enhance the experience of thousands of students every year? Bournemouth University is seeking Members to join the Board and its Committees or to be co-opted onto a specific Committee to offer support, challenge and scrutiny as critical friends of the institution.

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

Time commitment: Board: up to 12 days per year / Committee: up to 5 days per year

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 18th November

Who we are.

Bournemouth University‘s vision is to be recognised worldwide as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society through the fusion of education, research and practice.

The Board of Governors is looking forward to working with our new Vice Chancellor and CEO, Professor Alison Honour and the Executive Team on the creation and approval of the University’s next strategic plan. This plan will focus on refreshing the vision of the institution and will drive the continued sustainability and success of the University over the next 10 years for the benefit of our students, staff and the communities we serve.

About the role.

The University is seeking to appoint two full Board Members and three co-opted Committee Members to join them and contribute their expertise and time to support and enable the effective governance of the University.

We are seeking the following:

1 x Board Member (with finance/audit expertise who will also serve on the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee)
1 x Board Member (with estates/property expertise who will also serve on the Finance and Resources Committee)
2 x Co-opted Members (with finance/audit expertise to join the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee or the Finance and Resources Committee)
1 x Co-opted Member (with higher education expertise to join the Student Experience, Quality and Standards Committee)
Board Members:

Board Members will play an appropriate part in ensuring that the necessary business of the Board is carried on efficiently, effectively and in a manner appropriate for the proper conduct of public business. You will have a responsibility for ensuring the Board acts in accordance with the instruments of governance of the University and its internal rules and regulations.

The Board acts as a corporate body and Members are required to accept collective responsibility for the decisions reached.

Board Members will have collective responsibility for ensuring that the Board exercises control over the strategic direction of the University through an effective planning process and that the performance of the University is assessed against objectives approved by the Board.

Both Board and Committee Members:

You will be expected to act independently, making rational and constructive contributions to debate and making your knowledge and expertise available to the Board and/or Committee as opportunities arise. Members should establish constructive, supportive, but challenging working relationships with University employees, recognising the proper separation between governance and executive management.

Members may be asked to represent the Board and University externally and to use their personal influence and networking skills on behalf of the University.

Who we are looking for.

Bournemouth University is seeking experts in finance and audit, estates and property, and higher education to join them as Board and/or Committee Members.

Candidates must bring a successful track record of senior or executive strategic leadership experience in their chosen field, sector or industry and demonstrate a strong commitment to the mission and values of Bournemouth University and higher education in general. The University is a complex and multi-faceted business operating within a highly regulated sector subject to policy change. Therefore, we are keen to engage candidates who are able to demonstrate their experience of operating at this level within similarly sized and complex organisations.

All Members will be provided with a full induction, including mandatory training in areas such as safeguarding and IT Security. Further training opportunities are provided to develop in the role. You will also be invited to attend University events throughout the year, such as graduation.

Please click the link to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 18th November.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Sophie Carney
sophie@peridotpartners.co.uk

The University College of Estate Management (UCEM) Board provides a non-executive oversight of all UCEM activities and contributes to the development of strategy and future vision.

The Board is responsible for the overall good governance, monitoring and strategic direction of University College of Estate Management (UCEM). The Board works together with the Executive Team to ensure that UCEM achieves the objects defined in the Royal Charter and governing documents.

The Board is responsible for ensuring that UCEM meets the regulatory requirements of the Office for Students (OFS), the Charity Commission, the ESFA and Ofsted and fulfils the expectations of the CUC Higher Education Code of Governance.

The Chair plays a key role in the business of the institution but recognises the proper separation between governance and executive management, which is the day-to-day responsibility of the Vice Chancellor and the Executive Team. The Chair is supported in their role by a Vice Chair, who is also an independent member of the Board of Trustees, the Vice Chancellor, the University Secretary and the Clerk to the Board of Trustees.

UCEM Trustees play a vital role in the governance of UCEM. They use their diversity of talent, expertise, background, thought and challenge in decision-making and ensure that UCEM performs to the highest standards. They work with the Chair of the Board and the Executive management of the institution to set the mission, strategic direction, overall aims and values of the University. They take collective responsibility for the activities and performance of the institution as a whole.

As Chair of the Board of Trustees you will:

Be responsible for the leadership of the Board, ensuring that it provides clear, effective and collective strategic direction to UCEM and to the Executive Team, ensuring that all meetings are carried out efficiently, effectively and in accordance with the UCEM Royal Charter, Bye Laws and Regulations, its charitable objectives and other legislative and regulatory requirements set by the Office for Students

Set and maintain vision, strategy and values and ensure that UCEM is focused on achieving them

Ensure the Board adheres to the CUC Code of Higher Education Governance and has the skills required to govern UCEM well
.
Ensure there are effective systems of control and risk management in place

Ensure the financial stability of the institution, agreeing annual budgets, monitoring performance against agreed targets and ensuring that UCEM’s funds and estate are appropriately managed

Monitor and review the performance of UCEM Trustees through an annual appraisal process, encouraging them to contribute their skills and expertise and ensuring they all comply with the Nolan Principles of Public Life

Support recruitment processes for new Trustees to the Board and lead any recruitment process for the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor if required

Performance monitor, set objectives and guide the Vice Chancellor in leading the institution

Business:

Exercise control over the strategic direction of UCEM by receiving regular reports from the Vice Chancellor on progress towards agreed strategic priorities and key performance indicators

Provide constructive challenge in monitoring institutional performance in line with UCEM’s vision, strategy, KPIs, values, policies and procedures

Take an active role in discussion and sharing of ideas, using your specific skills, knowledge and experience to help the board to build consensus, reach sound decisions and ensure all voices on the Board are heard

Act as a critical friend to the Vice Chancellor and Executive team, bringing both support and challenge

Ensure UCEM has satisfactory control systems and procedures in place for holding trust for the beneficiaries all monies, properties and other assets and to ensure that monies are invested to the maximum benefit

Be a member of the Nominations and Governance Committee, the Finance Committee and the Remuneration Committee

Be an authorised signatory for key institutional documentation and regulatory compliance

Undertake regular communications with UCEM Staff on behalf of the Board

Personal:

Adhere to the Nolan Principles of Public Life – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, leadership, openness, honesty and accountability

Bring extensive experience in successful leadership of a complex organisation with an ambitious strategy

Have a strong personal commitment to the strategic goals. values, aims and objectives of UCEM

Always act fairly and impartially in the interest of UCEM, using independent judgement and maintaining absolute confidentiality concerning all sensitive/confidential information

UCEM is looking for an inspirational Chair with significant experience in the built environment sector who will be an ambassador for the organisation. They will be credible, able to take a constructive and advisory approach with the ability to challenge and take tough decisions, if necessary. They will be open, transparent, resilient and have gravitas.

The successful candidate will bring deep knowledge and experience of the built environment sector in a senior executive level capacity, in architecture, property, construction, real estate or sustainability. They will have significant chairing skills, either from operating as a Chair, Vice Chair or having chaired Committees to bring immediate credibility to the Board. They will be a role model with solid communication skills along with an ability to engage with various stakeholders internally and externally. The future Chair will be an ambassador for UCEM and will bring excellent relationship-building skills and will be a figure head for the institution and within the Board. They will have commercial acumen, an ability to spot, evaluate and drive business opportunities to deliver the best results for UCEM. Though experience of the higher education sector isn’t required, an understanding of the challenges higher education institutions are facing would be desirable. The successful candidate will have the time to commit fully to the role.

Above all, they will be passionate about education and the power of online learning, and will have a strong interest in the Built Environment sector. They will be aligned to the mission of UCEM and its values of passion, integrity, excellence and support. They will have a strong personal commitment to the Nolan Principles of public service and the principles of diversity and equal opportunities.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
The University College of Estate Management is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find a new Chair. You can find out more and apply here https://app.nurole.com/roles/66f408b799086b7810e083f4. To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

About University of Oxford:

The University of Oxford is a world-leading centre of learning, teaching and research and the oldest university in the English-speaking world. With 39 Colleges, it has over 26,000 students, including 12,470 undergraduates and 13,920 postgraduates. International students make up 46% of its total student body and students come to Oxford from more than 160 countries and territories. Oxford was ranked first in the world in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings from 2017-2024, a record eight consecutive years.

Oxford’s researchers, students, spin-outs and the Oxford University Press (OUP) engage with academic, commercial and cultural partners across the world to stimulate high-quality education and research and enable innovation through a broad range of social, policy and economic impacts. The University of Oxford contributes around £15.7 billion to the UK economy, and supports more than 28,000 full time jobs according to a study by London Economics. In terms of research, Oxford’s submission had the highest volume of world-leading research, according to the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

The University believes its strengths lie both in empowering individuals and teams to address fundamental questions of global significance, while providing all students and staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace which enables everyone to develop and do their best work. Recognising that diversity is a strength, vital for innovation and creativity, it aspires to build a diverse community which values and respects every individual’s unique contribution. With the Reuben College (a new graduate college) recently launched and The Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities which will be completed in 2025, Oxford is continuing to develop its estate.

While Oxford has long traditions of scholarship, it is also forward-looking, creative and cutting-edge. Oxford is one of Europe’s most entrepreneurial universities. The University of Oxford’s total external research income totalled over £856m and more than 150 companies have been spun-out from its research to date. Oxford has a total consolidated income of £2.9bn (for 2023), of which £789m was from research grants and contracts. In 2022-2023, £153.2m was spent on property, plant and equipment and net assets total £5.3bn. The latest accounts can be viewed here. The 2025-2030 strategy is currently being finalised and the 2018-2024 strategy can be viewed here.

Role specification:

Council is the University’s principal executive and policy-making body. It has 26 members, including four from outside the University. It is responsible for the academic policy and strategic direction of the University, for its administration, and for the management of its finances and property.

The Finance Committee reports to Council and is responsible for advising Council on the University’s financial business, in particular capital investment policy. The Committee recommends the annual financial statements of the University and the Press to Council, and approves the University’s banking and treasury arrangements. Ultimately, the Finance Committee recommends the financial strategy, the funding envelope for major capital projects (buildings and digital), the five year forecast and the accounts to Council.

Person specification:

The University of Oxford seeks to appoint up to three Finance Committee Members to act as a critical friend and advise on matters relating to the financial strategy, funding allocation for capital projects and other financial items. They will bring scrutiny, sound judgement and constructive challenge to the Council and Executive team. They will have gravitas and strong commercial acumen.

The successful individuals will be senior financial leaders with significant budget management experience (of over £1bn) and will have operated in organisations which are similarly large and complex. Experience can come from having operated as a CFO / FD of a large organisation or could be a senior leader in the banking or investment sectors. Experience in property / capital projects would be highly beneficial. Previous non-executive experience either as a Board or Committee member is necessary.

All Committee and Council Members will have a strong personal commitment to higher education as well as to the aims and objectives of Oxford as a collegiate University.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

brigitte.stundner@nurole.com
The University of Oxford is partnering with Nurole, the leading board-level search specialist, to find new Finance Committee Members. You can find out more and apply here. To arrange an informal conversation or in case of any other queries, please contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com

The University of East Anglia was built to embody a radical new vision for higher education, where interdisciplinarity is crucial and excellence in both research and teaching is valued. Since 1963, we have been breaking down boundaries between students and researchers, arts and science, business and social responsibility. Today, we are consistently ranked within the top quarter of universities in the UK for the quality of research and teaching and are tackling some of the key challenges of the changing world and breaking new boundaries across our priority research themes of climate, creative and health.

The Council is the governing body of the University, and its members are integral to its continued prosperity. Delivering first-rate governance and strategic insight, we seek to add a number of new Trustees to Council. Candidates will bring relevant experience and board leadership skills, including the judgement to provide non-executive oversight, independent scrutiny and appropriate challenge, to ensure the delivery of the new UEA 2030 Strategy.

Expressions of interest are encouraged from suitably qualified individuals from a wide and diverse range of professional backgrounds. Above all, it is essential that candidates are committed to UEA’s values and are able to work collaboratively with a talented executive team and Council for the benefit of all our communities.

The Council plays a crucial role in securing the University’s strategic success, with appointment to these posts offering an excellent opportunity to make a real and lasting difference.
For further details, including a candidate brief and information on how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/91625

Closing date for applications: Monday 2nd September 2024

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

 

About the organisation
National / international
About University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a leading research-intensive University, a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group, and one of the top 100 universities worldwide. With campuses in Southampton and Winchester as well as a third in Malaysia, the University of Southampton provides world-class teaching and research activities which are delivered across five faculties, each of which hosts several subject-specific schools and departments, the University has 26,000 students, including a community of over 10,000 international students from 130 different countries.

A top 20 University in the UK and top 100 internationally according to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Southampton has an excellent reputation which is based on a range of criteria, including entry standards, student satisfaction, staff and student ratio, expenditure on facilities and resources, research quality, and reputation among employers and academics from other institutions. In 2021, the University of Southampton launched its strategy to prepare the institution for the future, with the aim of Southampton being positioned as a top 10 UK university and towards a top 50 internationally recognised university by 2027–28. With a Triple Helix approach, research and knowledge exchange and enterprise (KEE) are intertwined even further by strengthening and increasing these links to achieve a greater impact and accelerate new ways to tackle the world’s most complex problems.

Despite operating in a challenging environment, Southampton is in good financial health and there is a real sense of momentum in its ambitious strategy. In addition, the University has a growth strategy to help maintain its financial health and achieve its wider objectives. This will include growing student numbers in the UK and internationally from 26,000 to 33,000, expanding its footprint in the city, increasing its international campuses beyond Malaysia and developing its online learning offering. The University is also embarking on a capital project with a billion pound investment to further develop its physical and digital estate over the next ten years. This will include new cutting edge research facilities such as the Institute of Medical Innovation and will also increase its facilities and residences for students, all in line with its sustainability agenda.

Website: https://www.southampton.ac.uk
About the role
Role summary
The University of Southampton is looking for a Treasurer-designate (Chair of the Finance Committee). The successful candidate will be a senior finance leader who brings the breadth and weight of experience to command the respect of an impressive Council and Committee. They could have operated as a CFO or Partner, for example, and will have worked in a similarly large and complex organisation advising on significant projects.
Role type
Treasurer / audit chair
Charity preferences
Other – Educational Charities
Education preferences
Ages – Higher Education (University)
Location
UK – South East
Time commitment
6 Council (4 physical and 2 online) meetings + 4 Sub-Committee meetings + 1 strategy day + ad hoc events and engagement
Role specification
The University Council is the governing body that contributes to the development of the University and plays an important part in shaping, determining and championing the University’s strategy and acts as a advocate for every member of staff and student community. The Council has responsibility for the administration of the University, for managing its resources, and for supporting and guiding the senior management in the delivery of the strategy and achieving its bold ambitions.

Lay Members contribute to the Council helping to ensure the University’s senior management team are working effectively and in collaboration, and are collectively responsible for overviewing the performance of the University and providing challenge, support and advice while respecting executive responsibility.

The role of Treasurer is a senior role on Council, chairing the finance committee which oversees the University’s financial plans and strategy. The current post holder is Stephen Young who will be coming to the end of his term in 2025. It would be the plan for this individual to join the Finance Committee in the summer / autumn of this year as Treasurer-designate to then take on the role of Treasurer (and join the Council) in 2025 when the vacancy arises.

You will act as an ambassador for the University and represent it externally, as a member of some of the Council’s Committees, which play key roles in the detailed governance and oversight of the University, such as Pension, Finance, Estates, and Infrastructure, and Remuneration Committee.

As required by the Office for Students, all Council Members shall meet the “fit and proper person” test for members of the governing body of a registered provider of higher education.

Person specification
The University of Southampton is looking for a Treasurer-designate (Chair of the Finance Committee).

The ideal candidate will be a senior finance leader who brings the breadth and weight of experience to command the respect of an impressive Council and Committee. They could have operated as a Partner, Finance Director or CFO, for example, and will ideally have worked in a similarly large and complex organisation advising on significant projects. The successful candidate will bring strong commercial acumen and could have operated in either the private, public or non-profit sectors. Previous Board or Committee experience would be desirable.

Above all, individuals will bring a commitment to the vision and values of the University which are: equality, transformational leadership, agility, collaboration and environmental sustainability.

Candidate experience
Additional information
Board Composition
To find out more about the Council Members, please see here.
Diversity
The University of Southampton welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or disability. As women and those from an ethnic minority background are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from these individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.
Terms of appointment
There are six Council meetings per year – four in-person and two online. The in-person meetings typically include an overnight stay the day before. These involve a dinner and can also include guest speakers, committee meetings, a tour of the University and other events. There are four Sub-Committee meetings and these tend to be held either during the Council meeting dates or virtually throughout the year. Though the role is unremunerated, the University will pay for accommodation, domestic travel costs and any other expenses incurred to attend Board meetings, such as childcare costs. The appointment is for a three-year term, which can be renewed once at the discretion of the Council.

Location:

This University is based in Southampton and as Council meetings will take place in person, candidates will be UK-based.

Process
After we have closed the application window on the Nurole platform, our team of experts carefully assess your application against the criteria outlined in the role specification. We will select a group of the most suitable candidates to present to the organisation, who will then be able to view the full application. We will always get in touch to let you know the outcome of your application.

As the organisation will view the applications without edits. We therefore advise applicants to avoid using ‘see CV’ or ‘please call me to discuss further’ in your application as it may restrict your chances of progressing to the next round.

To read more about what to expect from the Nurole process, click here

Take a look at Nurole guides on how to submit a strong application here

Connected parties
This organisation has requested that candidates do not contact them directly. Instead, if you know someone at the organisation, please mention it in your Reason for Application. Members who do not respect this may risk having their membership terminated.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Brigitte Stundner
University of Southampton is partnering with Nurole the leading board-level search platform on this appointment. If you’d like to view the full spec click here: https://app.nurole.com/roles/share/c01y. If you’d like to informally find out more about the role please contact Brigitte Stundner – brigitte.stundner@nurole.com

Interested in joining the Board of Governors or one of its committees?
Chelmsford College is a general Further Education college offering a variety of vocational and professional courses, apprenticeships, and specialist provision for those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Chelmsford College has two campuses, both within easy walking distance of each other. Our modern, up-to-date facilities and resources help students to learn new skills that can be transferred directly into jobs. Recent investment includes a new Built Environment and Sustainable Technologies Centre, a cyber security laboratory and an immersive digital suite.
The difference Chelmsford College can make for learners is in the connections: the lightbulb moments, gaining new skills, mastering crafts, meeting new people, networking with employers and being inspired. Our Board is fully committed to ensuring that the College supports learners to be the best they can be.

Do you have audit and finance expertise or curriculum knowledge?
We are seeking governors and co-opted governors to join our Board and support the College and its local community. Join the team working to create a better future for students, apprentices, and local businesses in the region.
It offers you the opportunity to get involved in developing new strategies, a chance to use your knowledge to both at Board and Committee level and shape the future of the College’s education. The initial commitment is for nine meetings a year.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

Ra Hamilton-Burns
hamilton-burnsr@chelmsford.ac.uk

Could you be one of our new external Council Members? Would you like to be one of the University’s strategic decision-makers, contributing to our continued success?

Share your expertise and strategic insight. Offer a fresh perspective. Grow your influence in this pivotal and rewarding role.

Joining Council

These are exciting times for the University. We’re looking to strengthen and diversify our board membership with new external Council Members who share our ambitions and values, and reflect our inclusive community. As governors of the University, the experience, skills and enthusiasm of Council Members are crucial to shaping the direction and development of the University.

We are seeking outstanding individuals with the intellectual capacity, commercial acumen and strategic leadership insight to support us in shaping our transformational agenda.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals that would increase the diversity of our governing body. Applications from candidates with financial management expertise or experience in the governance of large, complex organisations would enhance the skills available amongst Council Members. Applications from candidates with expertise outside these areas are also welcome.

We have two roles available from August 2024 as two of our current members come to the end of their tenures. We are also accepting applications from candidates who would like to be considered for places on our governing body with a starting date of August 2025, when some additional opportunities will become available. If you have experience at a senior level relating to education, or experience of being a trustee, or you work or have worked in a complex corporate, national, global, charity or public sector organisation, and would like to be considered for one of our governor roles, do get in touch.

In this rewarding and rare opportunity, you will make a significant contribution to the future direction of the University. We are home to the curious, the brave and the bold. If you share our passion and have the requisite skills and experience, we would be keen to hear from you.

Council Roles and Responsibilities

In addition to being Members of the University’s Council, members also carry the responsibilities of Trustees of the University as an exempt charity. A majority of our Council’s members are external to the University, and contribute a wide range of experience from their experiences in the public, private and third sectors. All Council Members, whether internal or external, have individual and collective responsibility for the University’s strategic decision-making.

As a Member of our Council, you would be expected to contribute the equivalent of approximately 16 days per year to the University. This will include on-site attendance at and engagement with four Council meetings, as well as two Council away days per year. Members appointed to Council sub-committees may be required to commit up to an additional four days a year.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted online by Monday, 8 April 2024.

Please use the ‘Apply online’ button to read further information, including the full role description, which outlines the nature and scope of the role and personal qualities sought.

To apply, please submit a comprehensive CV along with a covering letter setting out your interest in the role and details of how you match the required criteria. Please include in a separate document, the names and addresses of three referees. Referees will not be approached until the final stages and not without prior permission from candidates.

Applications should be made online, but if you would like advice or help in making an application or need information in a different format, please contact resourcing@essex.ac.uk

Any questions about the role of Council Member should be directed in the first instance to our Registrar and Secretary to Council, Bryn Morris, via registrar@essex.ac.uk.

Following a shortlist meeting of the Selection Committee, successful candidates will be invited to attend an interview at the University on Wednesday, 08 May 2024.

All candidates are requested to complete an online Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be found at the end of the application process. This will assist the University in monitoring selection decisions to assess whether equality of opportunity is being achieved. Any information collated from the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Forms will not be used as part of the selection process and will be treated as strictly confidential.

All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a Register of Interest form and a Fit and Proper Declaration. Successful candidates will also be required to sign up to the University’s Governor Code of Conduct, copies of which will be provided to each short-listed candidate ahead of the final interview stages.

 

To apply for this position, please contact:

resourcing@essex.ac.uk
Any questions about the role of Council Member should be directed in the first instance to our Registrar and Secretary to Council, Bryn Morris, via registrar@essex.ac.uk.

The University of Buckingham is a non-profit private university in Buckingham, England and the oldest of the country’s five private universities. It was founded as the University College at Buckingham in 1973, admitting its first students in 1976. It was granted university status by Royal Charter in 1983. It is the only independent university in the UK with a Royal Charter, and probably the smallest with around 3,200 students. Uniquely, the University specialises in two-year undergraduate degrees, allowing students to complete their studies one year earlier than elsewhere.

The University of Buckingham provides students with a distinctive, high-quality, student-centric alternative to other institutions. It was awarded a Silver ranking in the recent Teaching Excellence Framework, and has always scored very highly in the National Student Satisfaction survey. With a turnover of c. £48m, a current total of around 3,200 students, and 360 staff, the University is organised into four Faculties: Medicine and Health Sciences; Education; Computing, Law and Psychology; and Business, Humanities and Social Sciences. The University campus is well known for being one of the most attractive locations in the region. The Great Ouse river, home to much wildlife, winds through the heart of the campus. Each student mixes with over 100 different nationalities.

In July 2023, Council formally approved the University’s new five-year Strategic Plan. Providing the University with a roadmap for success in the medium-term, the Plan differentiates the University from the rest of the sector, with a distinctive offer to prospective students and staff founded on the University’s status as an independent institution. The University believes that the pursuit of free enquiry is more important now than ever before and that its students and academics will be pro-actively encouraged to engage in open debates, where different perspectives and viewpoints are welcomed, changing and challenging the higher education environment.

With this in mind, the Council now seeks to appoint new Trustees to further strengthen its governance. The University of Buckingham is at an exciting juncture in its history, and these Trustees will have a unique opportunity to help the University to achieve the vision, mission and strategic ambitions set out in the new Strategic Plan.

For more information, please see the University’s Trustee Recruitment Brochure.

Role specification

The University’s Council is responsible for the determination of the educational character and mission of the University and for the general oversight of its activities, including the effective and efficient use of its resources. It approves the university’s strategy, which supports and informs the setting of strategic and other priorities for the future. It is guided in its role by a Vice-Chancellor who, as chief executive, is responsible for providing transformational leadership to ensure that the university achieves its strategic aims, delivers an outstanding student experience and fulfils its responsibilities to staff and key stakeholders.

Council comprises eminent external and independent members, ex-officio members (including the Vice-Chancellor, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and the President of the Students’ Union), elected members from the University’s Senate, an elected member from the University’s professional services staff, a nominated student and a nominated alumnus. All members of Council are charitable trustees of the University and are appointed in accordance with the Charter, Statutes and Ordinances of the University.

The University is seeking to appoint four or five independent Trustees to the university’s Board to take forward its strategic ambitions. It seeks independent Trustees who bring strategic insight and experience to enable the university to achieve its ambitions in a rapidly changing and challenging higher education environment.

The responsibilities of independent Trustees include a number of areas as set in the University’s Statutes:

• Appointment and employment
• Governance and audit
• Strategic
• Financial, Legal and Regulatory
• Estate and Property Management
• Academic and Administrative
• Student and Staff Welfare
• Equality and Diversity
• The Students’ Union
• Removal of Officers of the University

The Ordinances also set out a series of requirements that trustees are required to meet in carrying out their duties as Council members effectively and diligently. Trustees have a duty to observe the highest standards of corporate governance, meeting the requirements of the Committee of University Chairs’ Higher Education Code of Governance, ensuring and demonstrating integrity and objectivity in carrying out the business of the University and by adopting a spirit of openness and transparency.

As a registered charity and as a registered higher education provider, the University is regulated by both the Charity Commission and the Office for Students (OfS). Council is responsible for the University’s compliance with the legal and regulatory requirements of these bodies, including in the case of the OfS, the requirements of its Regulatory Framework. The University maintains a directors and officer insurance policy that indemnifies trustees in their role. All successful candidates must pass the OfS ‘fit and proper persons’ check, which is standard procedure for all Trustees.

Person specification

Independent Trustees bring to the Council and the University particular areas of expertise and perspectives from a range of sectors and disciplines to benefit the Council’s strategic oversight of the University’s activities.

It is essential that appointees are individuals of the highest calibre and standing in their particular discipline or field, and that they have a willingness to give the time required to contribute effectively to the work of Council and the University. The Council therefore seeks individuals with the following attributes:

• A strong commitment to the role higher education plays in people’s lives and support for the vision, values, objectives, and strategy of Buckingham University
• A personal commitment to the seven Nolan Principles of Public Life
• A proven track record of leadership gained within large and/or complex organisations in either the public, private, or not-for-profit sectors
• The vision and inquisitiveness to contribute effectively to strategic thinking and decision-making, and to have the ability to challenge effectively and act as a ‘critical friend’
• Ideally, a proven track record of operating at non-executive level, though exceptional candidates will be considered for whom this would be their first board level position
• A high level of integrity and probity, and the ability to act fairly, impartially, and in the best interest of the University at all times

In addition to the above requirements, Council is looking to appoint individuals from this recruitment round who have significant current/recent experience in one or both of the following areas:

Finance: Individuals will bring senior finance leadership. They will have great attention to detail and bring scrutiny to the Executive team and Council on various financial and auditing matters.

HR: Individuals will bring senior HR leadership experience. They will provide strategic advice / guidance on matters relating to people, human resource management and talent development. The HR experience can come from any sector, but candidates must have a strategic understanding of how HR can support an organisation to achieve its overall objectives.

IT & Digital: Individuals will bring senior IT/technology leadership experience. They may have a background as a CIO, CTO, CDO, IT Director, Consultant or Advisor. They will have an appreciation of wider developments and upcoming changes in digital infrastructure and will be able to apply this knowledge to provide strategic guidance on areas integral to the University, including administration, accounts and security. The will ensure the University is well prepared for future developments in technology and maintains careful oversight of its digital risk.

Environment/Sustainability: Individuals will have senior leadership experience spearheading environmental initiatives and embedding sustainability practices. They will be responsible for strategically assessing the University’s environmental footprint, driving ambitious sustainability goals, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. A deep understanding of relevant regulations and a passion for positive change are key.

Estates: Individuals will bring senior leadership experience in property/estates, architecture or property development. This individual will be reviewing the strategic opportunities around the University’s campus and will bring significant experience in estates, building development and/or architecture and sustainability.

Previous non-executive experience is not a requirement for this role as the University offers a thorough on-boarding programme and training for all new Governors. Applicants should feel capable of advising on strategy in a complex environment with multiple stakeholders, and will bring an ability to work in a collaborative manner, debating constructively, and will be an excellent communicator with the ability to influence others. Candidates should also highlight any previous fundraising experience in their Reason for Application.

Board composition

To find out more about the Board, please see here.   

Terms of appointment

This is a voluntary role but reasonable, pre-agreed expenses will be reimbursed. The initial term of office for all trustee appointments is three years, subject to renewal for a further two terms on the basis that Council is supportive of the re-appointment.

Ordinary Council meetings are held six times throughout the year on campus in Buckingham. The default position is for trustees to attend board meetings in person, though arrangements can be made for virtual attendance when required. Though the majority of business is conducted at meetings, the University’s business can occasionally require decisions to be taken by correspondence between meetings. Council delegates a number of its responsibilities to its sub-committees:

• Audit and Risk Committee – usually meets four times per year
• Finance and Resources Committee – usually meets four times per year
• Nominations and Governance Committee – usually meets twice per year
• Remuneration Committee – usually meets twice per year

In addition to serving on Council, independent trustees are expected to serve on at least one sub-committee. These meetings are held using a hybrid model. There is also the opportunity to represent the University at other functions and engagements.

With all this in mind, candidates will need to be UK based.

Diversity

The University of Buckingham welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As those from ethnic minority backgrounds are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from those individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

UCEM is looking for new Trustees with experience in either higher education, marketing, or have come from a legal background to provide strong governance and act as a critical friend to the Board and Executive team regarding their specialism.

About

University College of Estate Management (UCEM) is the leading provider of supported online learning about the Built Environment. It has over 100 years’ experience of providing the highest quality learning opportunities. UCEM has 4,000 students from more than 100 countries (25% of its students are international) benefiting from its qualifications, which are taught by tutors with extensive industry experience. UCEM helps to enhance Built Environment professional careers through accredited property-related and construction programmes offered at Postgraduate and Undergraduate levels, including apprenticeships; a growing area now representing 60% of the organisation’s income. UCEM’s MSc Innovation in Sustainable Built Environments was launched in September 2023.

UCEM has undertaken a significant transformation during the last decade; with key achievements including moving its teaching model from correspondence courses, to being fully delivered online. It has also established its full independence as a Higher Education Institution (HEI) through the implementation of its Taught Degree Awarding Powers (TDAP), effective from 1 January 2013. UCEM is registered with the Office for Students (OFS) as an Approved (fee cap) provider. In autumn 2020, UCEM launched its revised portfolio of programmes through the Transform project, bringing in a number of additional benefits to students. The institution has responded quickly to changing market conditions by adapting existing programmes to provide Built Environment aligned apprenticeships at higher (degree) level. All programmes continue to focus on enabling education about the Built Environment, in line with its Royal Charter and aligned to the professional standards and vocational needs of the sector.

Following a period of significant growth and change, the organisation is refining its financial plans to ensure it remains in a strong financial position during a challenging time for the education sector. UCEM is currently developing and expanding its product portfolio whilst having a real focus on sustainability. In 2019, UCEM launched its ambitious Vision and Strategy to 2025, as part of its mission to become the Centre for Excellence for Built Environment Education. It’s an exciting time to join the organisation and shape its future as the organisation will deliver its 2030 strategy this summer.

Role specification

University College of Estate Management (UCEM) Trustees provide a non-executive oversight of all UCEM activities and contribute to the development of strategy and future vision. Governance is through the Board of Trustees and Sub-Committees as required.

The Board is responsible for the overall governance, monitoring and strategic direction of University College of Estate Management (UCEM). The Board works together with the Executive Team to ensure that UCEM achieves the objects defined in the Royal Charter and governing documents.

The Board is responsible for ensuring that UCEM meets the regulatory requirements of the Office for Students (OFS), the Charity Commission, the ESFA and Ofsted and fulfils the expectations of the CUC Higher Education Code of Governance.

UCEM Trustees play a vital role in the governance of UCEM. They use their diversity of talent, expertise, background, thought and challenge in decision-making and ensure that UCEM performs to the highest standards. They work with the Chair of the Board and the Executive management of the institution to set the mission, strategic direction, overall aims and values of the University College. They take collective responsibility for the activities and performance of the institution as a whole.

Person specification

Trustee (Legal)

UCEM is looking for a new Trustee with a legal background to bring advice and scrutiny on various legal matters and provide strong governance. They will act as a critical friend to the Board and Executive team regarding their specialism. They will be credible, able to take a constructive and advisory approach but with the ability to challenge and take tough decisions if necessary.

Individuals will likely have experience of charity or commercial /corporate law, reviewing contracts and providing advice on a range of legal issues. They could have experience as a lawyer in private practice or with in-house experience as General Counsel. Experience of charity commision law is desirable but not essential. Some exposure to the Built Environment sectors would be welcome but is not a requirement for the role. Previous governance experience would also be welcome but is not essential.

Trustee (Higher Education)

UCEM is looking for a new Trustee with a background in higher education to provide advice on various matters and trends within the sector. They will act as a critical friend to the Board and Executive team regarding their specialism. They will be credible, able to take a constructive and advisory approach but with the ability to challenge and take tough decisions if necessary.

The successful candidate will have knowledge of the Higher Education (HE) environment from having worked in the sector at a senior level. They could also have provided advice or consultancy to HE sector organisations, such as membership bodies or regulators. Alternatively, they could  have worked for an EdTech company and have had responsibility for driving digital education or been a Digital Director / CIO / Transformation Director within the HE space. Individuals will bring a good understanding of the regulatory environment in which UCEM operates and the challenges facing the HE sector at the current time. Some exposure to the property / construction or apprenticeship sectors would be welcome but is not a requirement for the role. Previous governance experience would also be welcome but is not essential.

Trustee (Marketing / Business Development)

UCEM is looking for a new Trustee with a background in marketing and / or business development to provide advice on various strategic matters and trends. They will act as a critical friend to the Board and Executive team regarding their specialism. They will be credible, able to take a constructive and advisory approach but with the ability to challenge and take tough decisions if necessary.

The successful candidate will have experience at a leadership level in marketing or business development. They will have experience of brand development / positioning, profile-raising and will have led an organisation through a period of growth. Experience of going into new markets would be beneficial. Some exposure to apprenticeships or the Built Environment sectors would be welcome but is not a requirement for the role. Previous governance experience would also be welcome but is not essential.

Above all, they candidates will be passionate about education and the power of online learning, and will bring an interest in the Built Environment sector. They will be aligned to the mission of UCEM and its values of passion, integrity, excellence and support. They will have the time to commit fully to the role.

Board composition

To find out more about the Board, please view here.

Terms of appointment

The time commitment for a Trustee is four Board meetings per year which are held in-person (in London or Reading), as well as three Board Sub-Committee meetings per year. There will also be one strategy day per year. The expected time commitment will be a minimum of c.10 days per year. These are three-year terms from the date of appointment, renewable for a further three-year period. These are voluntary roles with no employment status. The roles are not remunerated, however incidental travelling and subsistence expenses may be claimed. Please refer to the Terms of Reference which outlines the power and functions of the UCEM Board of Trustees here. 

Location: These vacancies are only open to UK-based applicants.

Diversity

UCEM is proud of its diverse student community and wants to see the fantastic diversity of its student population reflected in its Board of Trustees. UCEM welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As women and those from an ethnic minority group are currently underrepresented on the Board, applicants from these groups are particularly encouraged to apply. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

Contact

UCEM is partnering with Nurole the leading board-level search platform on this appointment. If you’d like to view the full spec click here: https://www.nurole.com/ucem-trustees. If you’d like to informally find out more about the role please contact Brigitte Stundner: brigitte.stundner@nurole.com

Nuffield College is a graduate college of the University of Oxford dedicated to advanced study and research in the social sciences, particularly economics, politics, and sociology.

The College was established in 1937 when the motor manufacturer and philanthropist William Morris, also known as Lord Nuffield, donated land and provided a gift of £900,000 to the University of Oxford. This gift provided the funds to build the College and an endowment to fund its activities. One of Lord Nuffield’s key ambitions in establishing the College was to create a place of postgraduate study that could enhance cooperation between the academic and non-academic worlds in order to address social, economic and political problems, and an aspiration to act as a bridge between the academic and public worlds continues to guide the College’s activities today.

The College was ground-breaking from the moment it was established. It was the first Oxford college to:

• Admit both men and women as students and academics
• Recruit only graduate students
• Have a subject specialisation (in the social sciences)

The College has been, and continues to be, the source of major research developments in social science. These include the British Election Studies and the major programme of research on Social Mobility in Britain. It was the birthplace of the “Oxford School” of Industrial Relations; it pioneered the development of cost-benefit analysis for developing countries; and it has made a major contribution to the methodology of econometrics.

Nuffield’s endowment plays a fundamental role in supporting its activities. At its most recent year-end, 31 July 2023, the College’s (group) net assets were £314 million and its investment assets were valued at £326 million. Total income in the year to that date was £14.1 million, of which the investment assets generated about 84%.

Role specification

Under its Statutes, the College’s Governing Body, which is the trustee body under charity law, determines its strategic direction and regulates its administration and the management of its finances and assets. The Governing Body is chaired by the Warden. In September 2024, the current Warden, Sir Andrew Dilnot, will retire and will be succeeded by Professor Julia Black, who is also President of the British Academy.

The duties of the College’s Investment Committee include advising the Governing Body on investment policy, approving investment strategy and overseeing its implementation, appointing investment managers, and advising the College’s Endowment Office. The Committee comprises internal members, drawn from the Governing Body, and external members, who hold no remunerated post in the College and have senior-level experience relevant to the work of the Committee.

The Committee operates in a way which accords with the ethos of the College. The Members determine the corporate views of the Committee through consensus, with emphasis on open discussion and reasoning. The internal Members act on behalf of the Governing Body and are accountable to it for decisions taken by the Committee. They are also responsible for ensuring that the Committee operates properly from a governance perspective.

The Governing Body asks the External Members to act with the College’s best interests in mind, to offer advice freely and to the best of their ability, and to respect the confidentiality of all relevant information. It does not ask them to assume responsibility for decisions taken by the Committee.

Person specification

Due to a Member coming to the end of his term, the College wishes to appoint a senior leader with broad experience of investment portfolio management and / or oversight of long-term endowment or similar portfolios, who will be able to take a broad view of its investment portfolio as a whole. This includes how it might be structured, risks, and how much should be drawn down to support the College’s activities. Therefore, the successful candidate should be someone experienced, an expert in investment and with the ability to offer strategic advice, guidance, and appropriate challenge to the College’s investment strategy.

All candidates should have the intellect, communication skills and wisdom to make effective contributions to the Committee. They should be comfortable in an intellectually-challenging and stimulating environment. As part of the College’s commitment to diversity, it particularly welcomes interest from women and those from an ethnic minority background.

Terms of appointment

This role is unremunerated but reasonable, pre-agreed domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed. The Committee normally meets three times per year, and has a Non-property Subgroup and a Property Subgroup. Members are appointed for three years and may be reappointed for a further three years.

Diversity

Nuffield College welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As women and those from an ethnic minority background are currently under-represented on the Committee, applications from those candidates would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process.

Contact

Nuffield College, University of Oxford, is partnering with Nurole the leading board-level search platform on this appointment. If you’d like to view the full spec click here: https://www.nurole.com/nuffield-college-external-member. If you’d like to informally find out more about the role please contact Brigitte Stundner: brigitte.stundner@nurole.com

Magdalen College was founded in 1458. It is one of the oldest and most beautiful colleges in Oxford, set within 100 acres, including numerous buildings, new and ancient, the famous Magdalen Tower, the Deer Park and Addison’s riverside walk. The College has over 640 students, providing an inclusive and supportive culture, allowing creativity and scholarship to thrive.

Magdalen College enjoys a world-leading academic reputation through outstanding student results, the calibre of its Fellowship and the achievements of its Alumni, with numerous Fellows of learned societies, alongside ten Nobel Prize winners. A strong tradition of excellence in science, innovation and entrepreneurship is exemplified by companies founded by Magdalen Fellows, which include current companies OrganOx, Moa Technology and Oxford Endovascular, all of which have flourished at The Oxford Science Park.

The Oxford Science Park is majority owned by Magdalen College, in partnership with GIC since Oct 2021, and represents a strategic asset in the College’s endowment portfolio. The concept of The Oxford Science Park was developed by the College in the late 1980s, with the first building, the Magdalen Centre, opening in 1991. Three decades of development since, with sought-after proximity to the world’s leading university, has seen The Oxford Science Park grow to become one of Europe’s leading science parks, now with a focus on the exciting life sciences sector. The Oxford Science Park is currently embarking on the next phase of development of c.600,000 sqf of state-of-the-art R&D laboratory facilities to accommodate the rapid growth of life science companies from the UK and abroad. New developments will also feature a train station, which will be transformational for Park occupiers and the local community.

Role specification

The Chair will be engaged by Magdalen College as a College-nominated Director to lead both the Board of The Oxford Science Park Ltd and the joint venture (JV) Board of The Oxford Science Park (Properties) Ltd. The Chair will:

• Ensure that the Boards are effective and fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance of The Oxford Science Park
• Work closely with the CEO and executive team of The Oxford Science Park, ensuring that they are supported, challenged and held accountable
• Apply extensive property development and asset management experience to add value to the strategic leadership and the management of The Oxford Science Park
• Liaise closely with the College Bursar and other College-appointed Directors and ensure effective communication with two Directors appointed by GIC on the JV Board
• Perform duties faithfully, diligently and to a standard commensurate with the function of the role and with one’s own knowledge, skills and experience
• Lead discussions around the remuneration of the management team

Person specification

Magdalen College, University of Oxford is the majority shareholder of one of Europe’s leading science parks, The Oxford Science Park which has two boards: The Oxford Science Park Ltd (development and asset management company, 100% wholly-owned by the College) and The Oxford Science Park (Properties) Ltd, a joint venture with GIC. The College now seeks an experienced individual with significant property investment expertise, as well as development and asset management experience to chair the two boards for the Science Park.

The successful candidate will bring extensive and recent experience of large-scale property investment, development and asset management. This may have been gained in a variety of backgrounds, such as a fund manager, property investor and developer or agency. They will be a strategic thinker, an astute business-person, and an effective advisor to the College regarding the development of The Oxford Science Park.

The individual will also bring the following personal characteristics:

• Energetic, but not overbearing, with a real interest in adding value to the Park’s activities
• A collaborative and consensual style with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely
• Excellent at building interpersonal relationships with high levels of integrity and sensitivity
• Strong convictions without being dogmatic
• Gravitas, with the ability to demonstrate credibility and a reassuring seniority

Whilst the College is open to engage a first-time Chair, the successful individual will bring proven non-executive board experience.

Finally, the College will encourage the appointed candidate to develop an active relationship with the wider College community, including the Fellowship.

Terms of appointment

This role is remunerated, and reasonable, pre-agreed travel expenses will be reimbursed. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend up to 24 days per year in relation to this role. This could be slightly higher in the first year. This will include attendance at Board meetings, pre-Board reading, site visits and ad-hoc engagements. The expectation is an initial three year term.

Location: This organisation is based in Oxford and meetings will take place in person and virtually. Candidates will therefore be UK based.

Contact

Magdalen College is partnering with Nurole the leading board-level search platform on this appointment. If you’d like to view the full spec click here: https://www.nurole.com/magdalen-college-chair. If you’d like to informally find out more about the role please contact Brigitte Stundner: brigitte.stundner@nurole.com