Applications open to become a Nottingham Trent University Governor

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is looking for candidates to join its Board of Governors and is partnering with Nurole, a leading board level search specialist company.

Applications are now open for candidates to apply to an initial three-year term, with successful applicants having the chance to shape the future of one of the largest and most influential higher education institutions in the country.

The University’s Board of Governors has overall legal and constitutional responsibility for the conduct of the institution’s affairs, in accordance with its Instrument and Articles of Government. In accordance with its various legislative and regulatory obligations, the Board of Governors of the University is responsible for:

• Approving the mission and strategic vision of the institution, its long-term academic and business plans and key performance indicators, and ensuring that these meet the interests of stakeholders;
• Delegating authority to the Vice Chancellor (as chief executive and head of the institution) for the academic, corporate, financial, estate and personnel management of the institution;
• Ensuring the establishment and monitoring of systems of control and accountability, including financial and operational controls and risk assessment;
• Ensuring that processes are in place to monitor and evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the institution against its plans and approved key performance indicators;
• Establishing processes to monitor and evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the governing body itself;
• Appointing the Vice-Chancellor, as chief executive, and putting in place suitable arrangements for monitoring his/her performance;
• Appointing a Clerk to the governing body and ensuring that, if the person appointed has managerial responsibilities in the institution, there is an appropriate separation in the lines of accountability;
• Acting as the employing authority for all staff in the institution and ensuring the establishment of an appropriate human resources strategy;
• Ensuring that appropriate provisions are in place for the general welfare and discipline of students;
• Safeguarding the institution’s assets, property and estate, and its reputation and values; and
• Approving the annual budget and financial statements, and publishing audited financial statements for each financial year.

NTU welcomes applications from individuals who may not have previous Board experience as all new Governors will be offered a comprehensive induction programme. The successful Governors will recognise and respect the distinction between strategic governance and executive management responsibilities. Candidates will have a strong commitment to NTU's mission and values as well as having the time to commit to the role and be available to attend meetings.

The new Governors will ideally bring experience in one of the following areas:

Creative/Digital: NTU is renowned for its academic provision in the creative and digital space and with the opening of the Design and Digital Arts Building on its city campus and the facilities at NTU London is investing to build on this reputation further. The University would therefore welcome applications from individuals from the creative or digital industries, for example from the theatre, arts, fashion or gaming sectors, amongst others.

Property/Regeneration: With a focus on property and regeneration, NTU would welcome applications from leaders in the property / estates or regeneration sectors with local knowledge and connections in the area. They will bring an understanding of the city’s regeneration which also speaks to its Enriching Society  theme of the University, reimagined strategy.

Health: With a new state-of-the-art clinical facility based on its Clifton Campus, The Institute of Health and Allied Professions, the University is interested in hearing from individuals in leadership positions in large health organisations such as the NHS, the pharmaceutical sector or private health organisations. The University is particularly interested in individuals with broad leadership experience in these sectors.

Banking / Investment: NTU is interested in hearing from senior leaders in banking, investment or treasury roles to advise the University on a range of financial and investment matters. They will bring strong commercial acumen whilst maximising opportunities and mitigating risks.

In addition to the above skills, NTU also welcomes applications from high achieving individuals with experience beyond those outlined above, who are passionate about the transformative power of higher education.

Find out more about the role and how to apply.

Interested applicants are also welcome to arrange an informal conversation or for any queries to contact Brigitte.Stundner@nurole.com.

The deadline for applications is midnight on 30 January.