Governance

The governance of the University currently takes the following form:

The Council

The Council is the University's governing body and meets at least four times during each academic year. It sets the University's strategic direction, ensures compliance with statutory requirements and approves constitutional changes. The Council is ultimately responsible for managing the University's estate, finance and staff, with much of the detailed work falling to sub-committees. A broad representation of lay members, drawn from commercial, community and professional organisations, provide the Council with a valuable perspective. The primary responsibilities of the Council are set out in Ordinance A2 Statement of Primary Responsibilities of the Council, Powers of the Council.

More information can be found on our Key policies and regulations webpage.

Senate

Senate is the University’s main academic administrative body. Reporting to the Council and meeting at least three times a year, Senate advises on areas such as academic quality, student entry, assessment and awards. With around 70 members, Senate comprises Deans, Heads and elected representatives of Schools, colleagues representing teaching and learning and research, as well as professional staff and students. University Boards responsible for developments and innovation in research, teaching and learning report to Senate.

University Executive Board (UEB)

The University Executive Board consists of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Pro-Vice-Chancellors, the two Heads of Service, the Chief Financial Officer, and the University Secretary. It meets most weeks throughout the year and deals with all aspects of academic management, including finance. It also advises the Scrutiny and Finance Committee on the allocation of resources. The University Executive Board reports to Senate and to the Scrutiny and Finance Committee.