Heriot-Watt University is seeking to appoint two new lay members of the Court. Lay members are independent of the University and join our governance body to provide an external perspective on important issues. In 2024, the Court is specifically seeking members with either legal or financial experience.
The Court is the governing body of the University with ultimate authority over all of the University’s activities. Court members act as the University’s Trustees and are critical to the operation and function of the University. By contributing their skills, Court members provide advice to the Executive, act as critical friends and advocates for the University, and ensure that the University operates sustainably and in line with its strategy.
We would be very interested to receive expressions of interest from those who have:
– Legal expertise, particularly in the area of commercial law. Cross-border transactional experience is a desirable criteria for this role; OR
– Experience in finance, research and development, or commercialisation.
We are also seeking new lay members for the Finance Committee and the Ordinances and Regulations Committee.
The Finance Committee reports to the Court. By focusing on the University’s overall financial strategy, forecasting and sustainability, the Finance Committee helps the Court to:
– monitor compliance with the Scottish Funding Council’s Financial Memorandum;
– oversee the University’s Three-Year Financial Plan;
– monitor overall financial performance;
– monitor capital expenditure;
– consider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters and sustainability; and
– ensure that the University produces accurate Annual Accounts and Financial Statements.
The Ordinances and Regulations Committee also reports to the University Court, as well as the University’s primary academic committee, the Senate. Its role is to advise the Court and the Senate on changes to the Ordinances and Regulations.
The Ordinances set out how the University is governed and the practical steps that must be taken to put into effect the Charter and Statutes. The Regulations do the same for the University’s academic governance.
You can find out more about each role at www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/policy-governance/court/skills-and-experience.htm.
Heriot-Watt works within a strategic framework and a strong set of values, putting people at the heart of all we do. The Court is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and wishes to increase its diversity. We welcome applications from people in all walks of life and in all areas of the world. Our Court vacancies would be particularly suitable for those with previous non-executive experience, while our Court Committee roles are suitable for those with previous non-executive experience and those who are looking for their first non-executive role. Women are currently underrepresented on the Court and its Committees and this is an area we are particularly keen to address.
Membership of Court or a Court Committee is a voluntary unpaid role. These positions are therefore likely to appeal to those who wish to contribute to international higher education, widening access, the experience of our students, and the University’s financial sustainability. Lay members enjoy the benefits of contributing within a stimulating environment with like-minded but diverse individuals.
Please note that interviews are planned for 2, 3 or 10 May 2024.
To apply for this position, please contact:
Lisa Herlihy, Senior Governance Officer
L.Herlihy@hw.ac.uk
Candidates are also welcome to contact the University Secretary, Ruth Moir (R.J.Moir@hw.ac.uk), if they have any questions about the roles.
How to apply for the vacancy (e-mail):
Please provide a covering letter and CV to Lisa Herlihy, Senior Governance Officer, via L.Herlihy@hw.ac.uk.
(Please apply for the posts via the two links below:
https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/policy-governance/court/court-committee-member-vacancies.htm
https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/policy-governance/court/court-committee-vacancies.htm)
