Independent Governor

Edge Hill University

Join us in shaping the future of our thriving University.

About the Role

Edge Hill University is seeking to appoint independent members (non-executive directors and charity trustees) to join our Board of Governors and contribute to our continued growth and success.

We are a thriving and ambitious University based in the Northwest with a community of over 15,000 students and 1,900 staff. Ranked a Top 35 University (Guardian, 2024) we offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in health, medicine, science, creative arts, and education, and have a reputation of excellence having been awarded Modern University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2022). 

The Board of Governors oversees the educational character and mission of the University and has specific responsibilities for effective use of resources and financial probity. As an Independent Member of the Board of Governors your values and experience will contribute to the Board’s effectiveness and vision, enabling the University to build on its past, and protect and enhance our future.

We are looking for candidates who believe they can add value and who have an active interest in higher education and to the further development of Edge Hill University. Applications would be particularly welcome from candidates with expertise and experience in the following broad areas: 

• Digital
• Knowledge exchange / commercialisation
• Marketing / PR / communications / digital media
• Research
• People

We believe that an effective board includes, and makes good use of, difference in the skills, expertise, background, race, gender and other qualities of individual governors.

The role of Governor is a voluntary role, though reasonable travel expenses are re-imbursed. Through your role as Independent Governor, held initially for 3 years, you will gain invaluable boardroom skills and experience. A comprehensive induction programme, bespoke to you, will be facilitated meaning that, whether you are an experienced trustee or a first-time board member, you will receive information, support, and opportunities for professional development to reach your full potential. 

Meetings are normally held on the third Monday of each month, starting at 17:00. We do not hold formal meetings in vacation periods (April, December and August). Additionally, members are expected to attend one full day strategy session, normally in January. 

For further information about the role, and our Board of Governors, please view the Candidate Pack below.

If you are interested in applying or would like further details, please e-mail Helen Smallbone, Clerk to Governors, at BoardofGovernors@edgehill.ac.uk. 

Application Process

To be considered for a role on our Board, applicants should submit:

• An up-to-date CV and,
• a supporting statement that addresses the criteria in the person specification and outlines your motivation for applying. The statement should be no longer than 2 pages of A4 in 12pt font. 

Please tailor your application to the role, explaining why you meet the criteria and what you feel you could contribute to our Board and the University.

Please submit your application to Helen Smallbone at BoardofGovernors@edgehill.ac.uk. 

The closing date for submission of applications is 12 noon on Monday, 10 June 2024. 

Candidates wishing to discuss any aspect of their application should make initial contact with the Clerk by e-mail: BoardofGovernors@edgehill.ac.uk.