‘Considering the interests of students first’

Tom Beardmore-Gray is one of three Vice-Presidents of the University Council. Having graduated in Modern History from Oxford University in 1983, Tom has extremely diverse work experience, having worked for the Metropolitan Police, Price Waterhouse, Pepsi Cola International and De Beers. In 2010 he entered the education sector as the Chief Financial Officer of The Girls' Day School Trust and in 2018 became Chief Executive of Prep Schools Trust. Tom is also a Vice President and Chair of the Remuneration Committee at the University of Reading.

What is your role on Council?

I have been a lay member of Council since 2014. I am one of three Vice-Presidents of Council. I am Chair of the Remuneration Committee, which oversees the pay policies and procedures for setting the remuneration for the senior members of the University's staff. I am also a member of the Strategy and Finance Committee and the Student Experience Committee. Previously, I was Chair of the Audit Committee from 2015-20

What is a good thing about being a member of the Council?

The University is a substantial organisation with a broad range of strategic issues to consider. It is a privilege to be able to bring some of my professional experience from other walks of life to the Council of the University. 

What is challenging about being a member of Council?

I work full-time so I have to fit my commitments to the University's Council and its subcommittees around my work and other non-executive commitments. The biggest challenge is reading all of the papers! It is important for Council members to have an understanding of the challenges faced by the sector and how these challenges impact Reading specifically. I have enjoyed learning about the sector and the University since I joined Council and I hope that I have been able to contribute more effectively with the passage of time.

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

In a crowded and competitive sector; I think that it is important for the University to be clear about its strengths and what makes it distinctive for current and future students. The University also needs to have a plan on how best to use its assets to ensure a strong and sustainable future.

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

The University is a relatively complex institution with many and varied stakeholders to manage. I have learned that considering the interests of the students first is a good way to keep discussions focused and generally leads to the best outcomes.

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: