Since 1495, the University of Aberdeen has been open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others. We still have that purpose. A top 20 UK University, Aberdeen is one of the UK’s oldest and most distinguished universities. Named as the Scottish University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019 and awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education 2017 in recognition of our world-leading research into health economics and health services over the last forty years, our exciting new strategy Aberdeen 2040, encapsulates our commitment to building further on our history and international reputation for teaching and research excellence.
The University is seeking to appoint an exceptional individual to serve as its Senior Governor (similar to the ‘Chair’ of other universities) to lead its governing body (the Court) and to play a central role in setting and maintaining excellent standards of corporate governance and ensuring effective institutional leadership. The Senior Governor is responsible for the leadership of Court, for its effectiveness, for its conduct and for ensuring the University is well connected with its internal and external stakeholders, including its students and staff. The Court plays a crucial role in the development of the University’s vision and strategic direction and this opportunity arises at an exciting time as we seek to build upon recent successes and take forward the Aberdeen 2040 strategy.
The preferred candidate will be an individual with a record of successful leadership at a senior level within a large and complex public, private or third sector organisation who is keen to support an internationally competitive research-based university. The ability to identify key strategic and financial issues, a commitment to the highest standards of governance, and significant experience of chairing meetings and facilitating effective decision making are key. Candidates will have the ability to evaluate and monitor the performance of the University in a constructively critical manner and be a highly skilled communicator who can represent the University internally and externally, promoting its interests with key stakeholders regionally, nationally and internationally.
Time commitment is 50 days per year with a willingness to be available at short notice. Remuneration for the role is available and appropriate expenses are paid. The position is tenable for a period of three years in the first instance and may be commenced immediately. Applicants should note that in accordance with the Higher Education Governance (Scotland) Act 2016, the final stage of the appointment process following interview will be an election by students, staff and members of the Court. Expenses incurred in attending interview or campaigning in an election will be reimbursed (subject to University agreed limits).
The University of Aberdeen is committed to promoting equality, creating a culture of inclusivity and celebrating the diversity of its staff and student communities and the University Court believes that its own membership should represent the diverse nature of the University community. The Court would particularly welcome applications from candidates who could bring a lived experience of the equality groups, including intersectional identities. The Court is seeking to address under-representation in relation to racial diversity in particular.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the University of Aberdeen on this appointment. For further information about the role and relevant criteria, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference WVBZ. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Friday 2 April 2021.