Board of Governors

Company: Elizabeth School of London

Position: Board of Governors with experience in HR, Finance or Quality Assurance, Standards and Governance

Location: Virtual with some face-to-face meetings

Start date: Immediate Start

Remuneration: While this role is considered voluntary, we recognise the regulatory and strategic responsibilities it entails. As such, remuneration is attached to these roles to reflect the commitment required.

We are seeking dedicated and experienced individuals to join Elizabeth School of London’s (ESL) Board of Governors. The ideal candidates will bring expertise in Human Resources (HR), Finance or Quality Assurance, Standards, and Governance, within the Higher Education sector.

As a Governor, you will play a critical role in shaping the strategic direction, ensuring high standards, and promoting effective governance within our institution.

Remuneration

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic leadership

• Provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure ESL’s long-term success and sustainability.
• Support the Board of Governors in setting ESL’s mission, vision, and strategic goals and monitoring implementation of such.
• Assist in the alignment of ESL’s activities with strategic direction and plan.
• Support the Board in accessing appropriate information and data to inform and improve decision-making processes.

Governance and compliance

• Assist the Board of Governors in acting in accordance with best practice, regulatory requirements and ESL’s governing documents and policies.
• Support the development and implementation of robust governance frameworks and policies.
• Assist in compliance with all legal, financial, and educational standards.
• Support the Board of Governors by keeping informed of any regulatory changes and updates to policies.

Board management

• Attend Board meetings and facilitate an open and inclusive culture.
• Assist with effective and timely decision-making, with clear action points that are monitored and implemented.
• Facilitate productive discussions and foster a collaborative environment between Board members.

Stakeholder engagement

• Act as an ambassador for ESL, promoting its interests and enhancing its reputation with key stakeholder groups.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) of ESL, staff, students, alumni, and other external groups such as the local community.
• Meet regularly with the SLT and ensure their workload and wellbeing is considered.

Support and development

• Provide guidance and support to the SLT of ESL, including the provost.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the Board and the wider ESL community.

Qualifications and experience:

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, ideally from within the higher education sector.
• Strong understanding of governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to be able to delegate authoritatively and collaboratively.
• Ability to chair meetings effectively and openly.
• Ability to lead and manage diverse teams.
• Capacity to interpret and understand information and data quickly, drawing valid conclusions with a sound awareness of associated risk.

Personal attributes:

• Strategic thinker, with a forward-looking perspective.
• Integrity and impartiality.
• Collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership.
• Strong advocate for education and student success.

In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, ESL is committed to ensuring diverse membership of the Board of Governors.

If interested in becoming a governor at ESL, please email Janet Martin at janet.m@esl.ac.uk with your CV and personal statement.

Closing date: Monday 4th October