Governance Manager (Strategic & Academic Focus) (CC

We are delighted to present an exciting opportunity for a strategic, confident, and highly organised governance professional to join our expanding Governance Office as a Governance Manager (Strategic & Academic Focus). This pivotal role is instrumental in supporting the University’s principal governing bodies, Council and Senate, and actively contributing to the shaping of governance structures that underpin our reputation as a leading global institution.

This position is integral to the Governance Office, reporting to the Head of Governance. You will collaborate closely with the Governance Manager (Executive Focus), forming a core leadership team dedicated to supporting the University’s Council, Senate, and Executive. Together, you will ensure the highest standards of accountability, assurance, and integrity.

Key Responsibilities and Advantages:

• Drive Governance Improvements: Take the lead in enhancing our governance framework by simplifying processes, boosting transparency, and fostering institutional effectiveness. This offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on how the University operates.
• Support Key Governing Bodies: Play a crucial role in managing the governance cycle for Council and Senate. This involves ensuring effective, transparent, and high-quality decision-making at the heart of the University, providing invaluable experience in high-level strategic oversight.
• Develop and Mentor Talent: You will have the opportunity to line-manage and mentor Governance Partners, supporting their professional growth and fostering a culture of excellence within the team. This is an excellent platform for developing leadership and people management skills.
• Shape Strategic Direction: Become part of a forward-thinking and collegiate governance team that prioritises professionalism, innovation, and inclusivity. Your contributions will directly support the University’s ambitious strategic direction.
• Value-Adding Governance: This role is ideal for a professional who thrives on shaping decision-making processes and demonstrating how good governance can add real value. You will combine strategic insight with exceptional organisational skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

To excel in this role, candidates should possess:

• A strong understanding of effective governance frameworks, ideally gained within higher education or a similarly complex organisation. This role is a prime opportunity to deepen your expertise in this critical area.
• Proven experience of supporting senior boards or committees, ensuring decisions are informed, compliant, and aligned with strategic priorities. This experience will be invaluable for career progression in senior governance roles.
• Excellent communication and drafting skills, with the ability to articulate complex information clearly to diverse audiences. Developing these skills further will be beneficial for any leadership position.
• Confidence in managing relationships with senior stakeholders, employing sound judgment, diplomacy, and political awareness. This is a crucial skill for advancing within organisational leadership.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively. Mastering these skills will enhance your overall professional efficiency and leadership capabilities.
• A proactive and improvement-focused mindset, capable of identifying opportunities for process streamlining and enhancing governance effectiveness. This forward-thinking approach is highly valued and contributes to professional development.
• Experience in leading or supporting others, promoting a culture of professionalism, inclusion, and continuous learning. This aspect of the role offers significant opportunities for personal and professional leadership development.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and a collaborative working style within a supportive, high-performing team.

While a degree-level qualification or equivalent experience is required, additional professional training in governance or public administration (e.g., CIPFA, CGI) is a strong advantage. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who are curious, adaptable, and motivated by improving decision-making and accountability in complex organisations.

This is a full-time position (36.5 hours per week). We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements to balance individual and organisational needs. The University is committed to creating an inclusive environment where difference is celebrated and supported, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth, including generous annual leave, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work-life balance.