The Board and the University
- The Board of Governors acts in accordance with the instruments and articles of governance of the University, the conditions of registration for higher education in England and with the University’s internal regulations and policies and should seek advice from the Pro Vice-Chancellor Students and Governance or the Clerk to the Governors in any case of uncertainty.
- The Board of Governors exercises collective responsibility, making decisions corporately by all members acting as a body.
- From time to time, Governors may be formally or informally involved in the process for the recruitment of new members of the Board of Governors
- Board members are required to conduct themselves in accordance with accepted standards of behaviour in public life, embracing selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.
- Board members shall declare any conflict of interest in order that the integrity of Governing Body business shall be seen to be maintained.
- Board members are required to annually complete and file a satisfactory ‘fit and proper’ person declaration.
- Governors will make themselves available to attend induction and training events organised by the University or other appropriate bodies.
- Governors will attend all meetings of which they are a member, or give timely apologies if absence is unavoidable.
- The Board of Governors exercises control over the strategic direction of the University, through an effective planning process, and assesses the performance of the University against the objectives which the Board of Governors has approved. View our 2035 strategy here.
- Governors should establish and maintain a constructive and supportive but challenging working relationship with the Vice-Chancellor’s Group (VCG), recognising the proper separation between governance and executive management, and avoiding involvement in the day-to-day executive management of the University.
- Governors are required to join at least one Committee of the Board: Audit, Governance, People and Culture, Finance and Resources, or Remuneration.
- Independent Governors are encouraged to attend degree award ceremonies and participate in other University events such as Open Days.
- Governors may be asked to use personal influence and networking skills on behalf of the University.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
You will play a key role in guiding and overseeing the strategic direction, governance, and management of Southampton Solent University. As a Governor, you will be a member of the Board which oversees Southampton Solent University’s policies, ensuring its financial sustainability and upholding its academic standards. You will demonstrate a commitment to excellence in higher education, strong leadership skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Diversity is core to the identity and mission of Southampton Solent University and to this appointment process. We are particularly interested in candidates with senior experience in Higher Education; whether this has been gained as an Executive or Non-Executive.
- A strong personal commitment to higher education and the values, aims and objectives of the University.
- At all times act fairly and impartially in the interests of the University as a whole, using independent judgement and maintaining confidentiality as appropriate.
- A strong understanding of the application of principles of good governance.
- The ability to work in a team, which has both executive, non-executive members and student body representatives.
- The ability to analyse and review complex issues and weigh up conflicting opinions.
- The ability to explain both orally and in writing reasons for arriving at decisions.
- Understanding of strategic planning and resource management.
- A commitment to engaging positively and openly with students, staff, the public and diverse other stakeholders.
- Commitment to the Solent Values: Respect, Inclusivity, Integrity, Ownership, Engagement and Teamwork.
- Experience gained in an area of expertise directly relevant to the University’s activities.
- International experience.
- Experience of non-executive directorships and an understanding of not-for-profit/ charitable sector objectives.
