Would you like the opportunity to apply your expertise to influence the decision making at the very top of one of the country’s oldest ancient universities?
The University of Aberdeen is seeking to appoint five talented and dedicated individuals to its governing body – the University Court – and two of its key committees.
Applications are invited from individuals with a record of successful leadership within a public, private or third sector organisation, who are passionate about supporting an internationally competitive, research-intensive and diverse University.
In line with the University’s commitment to diversity and creating a truly representative board, it also has a vacancy for a Governance Apprentice, and candidates wishing to take their first steps towards a future Trustee role are encouraged to apply for this opportunity.
Established in 1495 to serve the North-east of Scotland, today the university is a global presence in higher education. A dual focus on the region and wider world is as important to it today as it was five centuries ago.
The new appointments to court will ensure the continued successful delivery of the university’s priorities and objectives, the setting of its strategic direction and commitment to its values and mission.
Independent Court Member and Audit & Risk Committee Chair
For this key role the University are seeking an individual with extensive senior audit and finance experience with professional qualifications and insightful knowledge of relevant current standards. A proven non-executive director, ideally this candidate will have previous audit committee leadership and a strong grasp of governance, risk, and controls, with experience overseeing auditors. The chosen individual will be able to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, and a solid understanding of public or charity sector governance.
Independent External (Lay) Member of Court Audit and Risk Committee (1 position)
Independent External (Lay) Member of Court Remuneration Committee (1 position)
Two individuals are sought with eexperience of acting as a non-executive director or trustee in the private, public or voluntary sector. The appropriate candidates will have an ability to provide critical scrutiny of proposals, plans, risk, assurance and performance oversight by using their professional knowledge and have the expertise and experience to analyse complex data and information. Candidates for the Audit and Risk Committee vacancy should ideally have professional senior experience in legal and a sound understanding of corporate governance, legal and regulatory matters. For the Remuneration Committee role, we are seeking an individual with relevant and recent experience of designing and implementing senior remuneration and reward procedures and an awareness of the importance of creating a strong and sustainable equality, diversity and inclusion approach.
Independent Member of Court
First and foremost with a passion and empathy for higher education, the ideal skillset for this role includes senior-level experience in pensions or actuarial work, with a relevant qualification and up-to-date knowledge of UK pensions regulation. Proven non-executive Director experience with strong understanding of Board and organisational governance as well as a solid understanding of governance in the public or charity sector would also be advantageous.
Governance Apprentice
The Governor Apprentice role provides the opportunity to shadow the University Court for one year, offering the skills, insights, and networks that will build a solid foundation for future board roles. You will leave understanding the role of the non-executive charity trustee. The ideal person for this role will have a strong interest in higher education, governance and the working of boards as well as excellent analytical, communication and organisational skills.
The University of Aberdeen has a rich and storied history. If you are inspired to become part of its future visit https://www.abdn.ac.uk/about/strategy-and-governance/court-recruitment/ for more information.