External Council Members

Could you be one of our new external Council Members? Would you like to be one of the University’s strategic decision-makers, contributing to our continued success?

Share your expertise and strategic insight. Offer a fresh perspective. Grow your influence in this pivotal and rewarding role.

Joining Council

These are exciting times for the University. We’re looking to strengthen and diversify our board membership with new external Council Members who share our ambitions and values, and reflect our inclusive community. As governors of the University, the experience, skills and enthusiasm of Council Members are crucial to shaping the direction and development of the University.

We are seeking outstanding individuals with the intellectual capacity, commercial acumen and strategic leadership insight to support us in shaping our transformational agenda.  

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with a strong interest in the higher education sector. Applications from candidates with expertise in areas such as education, research, finance, law, public policy, and technology, or with experience in governing large, complex organisations, would enhance the skills available amongst Council Members. Applications from candidates with expertise outside these areas are also welcome.

We have three roles available from August 2025 as three of our current members come to the end of their tenures. If you have experience at a senior level in a complex corporate, national, global, charity or public sector organisation, or you have held a senior role relating to education, or have experience of being a trustee, and would like to be considered for one of our governor roles, do get in touch. 

In this rewarding and rare opportunity, you will make a significant contribution to the future direction of the University. We are home to the curious, the brave and the bold. If you share our passion and have the requisite skills and experience, we would be keen to hear from you.

Council Roles and Responsibilities

In addition to being Members of the University's Council, our governors also carry the responsibilities of Trustees of the University as an exempt charity. The majority of our Council's members are external to the University, and contribute a wide range of experience from their experiences in the public, private and third sectors. All Council Members, whether internal or external, have individual and collective responsibility for the University’s strategic decision-making. 

As a Member of our Council, you would be expected to contribute the equivalent of approximately 16 days per year to the University. This will include on-site attendance at and engagement with four Council meetings, as well as two Council away days per year. Members appointed to Council sub-committees may be required to commit up to an additional four days a year. 

Read further information about the role and its responsibilities in the attached recruitment pack.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted online by the closing date of 5pm on Wednesday, 20 November 2024.

Please use the 'Apply' button to read further information including the full role description which outlines the nature and scope of the role and personal qualities sought. You will also find details of how to make your application here.

Our website http://www.essex.ac.uk contains more information about the University of Essex. If you have a disability and would like information in a different format, please email resourcing@essex.ac.uk.

Advert information