‘Listening to understand before speaking’

Helen Gordon has recently been appointed President of the Council and will replace Paul Preston when his term ends on 31 July 2022. She joined Council as a lay (external) member over four years ago and has been one of the Vice-Presidents since August 2020. She will be the Council’s first woman President.

Helen trained as a nurse at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London and progressed through a number of clinical and managerial positions in hospitals.  She now supports a diverse community of professional bodies in science through the Science Council.  Helen did her MBA from Henley Business School and is the inaugural chair of the Alumni and Development Board at Henley Business School.

What is your role on Council?

Currently I am one of the Vice Presidents of Council and I am responsible for supporting the President in the affecting running of Council, its governance oversight of the University and its work streams. I have a particular responsibility for connecting with the Professional Services staff of the organisation. From August, I will become the President of Council which is a huge honour. 

What are the positives about being a member of the University Council?

There are so many good things about serving as a member of Council. But if I were to pick one it would be that it’s a real pleasure working with so many talented people who are all passionate about supporting the University, its students and staff and the wider community. Everyone is so willing to bring their talents and time to our collective work.

What is challenging about being a member of the University Council? 

Staying on top of all the changes and developments across the University take time and energy.   All the information that comes to Council is important to read so that, as Council members, we are informed and able to contribute well to discussions and decisions. Making time for talking with students and staff is also immensely helpful.

What are you passionate about regarding the Council or the University Strategy?

As a Council we must continue to be relevant.  We need to operate in a way that is understandable and helpful in delivering strategy and in a way that ensures a sustainable and vibrant future.

What has been your single biggest learning during your time as a Council member?

My single biggest learning is that really listening to understand before speaking is both important and effective at a governance level, and in life generally I would say!  Listening to what students and staff say is especially important.

About University Council

Council is the ultimate governing body of our University and ensures that our institution is properly governed and meets all of its legal and regulatory requirements. Amongst its tasks is monitoring the University Strategy, as well as appointing the Vice-Chancellor and the University Executive Board.

Council is made up of 27 members in total, including 15 members external to the University known as lay members.

For more information about University Council: