Council profiles: 'Pushing for excellence in our activities'

Uma Kambhampati is a representative of the Leadership Group on the University Council since 2020. She is a Professor of Economics and Head of the School of Politics Economics and International Relations. Uma has been with Reading since 1998 and has, over the years, undertaken a range of leadership roles.

What is your role on the University Council?

As a member of this group and also as a Head of School, I bring knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing the university’s T&L and research activities to Council. 

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

I enjoy being on Council as it gives me a comprehensive view of what is happening within the University (across academic schools, functions and also commercial activities). It allows me to see how decisions are made and who is responsible for these decisions. 

What is challenging about being a member of the Council?

I found my first few months on Council very challenging as these were during the pandemic. Not knowing anybody on Council and not having had a proper induction, I found it hard to engage with the issues and speak up. Since then, however, I have met a number of Council members and have engaged with other staff members on Council to ensure that we are able to make constructive contributions to the agenda.

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

In my manifesto, I stated that I wished to work to ‘ensure that the University pushes towards excellence in all its activities, while ensuring that it prioritises staff well-being and sustainability.’ I am passionate about retaining the University’s culture as being a caring, engaged community even while we strive towards excellence and this informs my contributions to Council. 

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

I have been surprised at the extent of the role played by the University’s commercial activities and financial investments in maintaining our longer-term financial sustainability. It has also been reassuring to see the amount of experience on Council and the willingness of Council members to be ‘critical friends’ of the university.

As a member of staff, why would you recommend standing for election to the Council?

I think that if you care about the university and wish to make a difference, then standing for election on Council is an excellent way to make yourself heard.

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.

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