Job Description
Company: William College Role: 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 recognize 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 William College 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. Key Responsibilities: Strategic leadership Provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure William College long-term success and sustainability. Support the Board of Governors in setting William College mission, vision, and strategic goals and monitoring implementation of such. Assist in the alignment of William College 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 William College 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 William College, promoting its interests and enhancing its reputation with key stakeholder groups. Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) of William College, 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 William College, including the provost. Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the Board and the wider William College 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. Benefits: Annual leave (5.6 weeks) plus bank holidays. Workplace pension scheme. Company Sick Policy (from January 2025). Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) (until December 2024). Statutory maternity/paternity pays. Career development opportunities Training and self-development opportunities. Gym membership discounts Retail discount schemes Cinema discounts Grocery discounts Cycle to work Investing and savings opportunities Financial wellbeing – personal debt advise. Financial wellbeing education My Mind Pal (mental fitness) In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, William College is committed to ensuring diverse membership of the Board of Governors.