Members of University Council | Brunel University of London

Peridot Partners; Uxbridge; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Members of University Council Brunel University of London

Join Brunel University of London's Council and contribute to a leading technical university in London, where diversity powers innovation and social purpose drives global impact.

• Location: Uxbridge, West London
• Salary: Unremunerated, reasonable expenses paid

Who we are

Brunel stands apart! We’re a world-class research university, blending a technical focus with research excellence that directly addresses the needs of equitable and inclusive, environmentally sustainable global societies and economies. With a strong social purpose, exceptional staff and highly employable graduates, we boast remarkable international reach from our London campus.

On 1st October 2024, Brunel joined the prestigious and internationally renowned University of London federation. This provides significant collaboration and partnership opportunities as well as further enhancing Brunel’s brand positioning.

A World-Leading Technical University

Brunel mirrors the world-class technical universities found globally, whose research and education tackle the major scientific and economic challenges facing society and produce graduates at the forefront of addressing them. Our technical focus permeates all our subjects, from the applied technological nature of engineering and health to the craft excellence of design, performance and creative writing. Our strategy is to achieve global excellence through these distinctive traits, establishing us as a leader amongst UK universities.

Powered by Diversity

Diversity isn’t an afterthought at Brunel. It’s integral to our core identity and heritage, stretching back to the early nineteenth century and flourishing further since 1966. It’s a long-standing strength, asset and advantage: a source of innovative thinking, adaptability, entrepreneurship and a horizon-broadening educational experience. Few universities possess our breadth and depth of diversity, and our strategy is to leverage this advantage on the global stage.

A London Campus with Unparalleled Global Reach

Brunel’s campus resides on the western edge of one of the world’s leading global cities, a short distance from Heathrow airport. Almost uniquely amongst London universities, our campus is a large and unified green parkland, accommodating not just university buildings but also thousands of students, a wide range of sports and leisure facilities, and a hotel. Critically, we are not an isolated community — excellent transport links connect us to Central London, the UK and the world. This is another unique advantage Brunel enjoys, which we will enhance and develop to make us a leading national and global higher education destination, and a place of attraction for staff, students and the local community.

Driven by a Social Purpose

Brunel has always been committed to improving society. The colleges from which we evolved were established from the late 18th century onwards to bring education to previously excluded groups. We have consistently acted as an engine for social mobility and social justice, and a catalyst for opportunity for those seeking to transform their life chances through education. Similarly, our research addresses real-world problems and is driven by a strong desire to directly impact society’s major challenges. With a global outlook, our mission encompasses close engagement with the communities around our West London base, and with numerous communities worldwide, reflecting our international connectivity.

Co-creating with Business and Industry

Few UK universities have as strong a relationship with business and industry as Brunel. Long associated with the pioneering ‘sandwich degree’, our engagement with business, industry and the professions is embedded throughout the university, and is one of our defining characteristics. We aim to be a global leader in this area for the mid-21st century, advancing our cutting-edge innovation in business and industry-facing research and education. Brunel will further build its reputation around this distinctive feature and be recognised globally as an innovator and beacon of excellence. Our opportunities in this regard are significant, given our location in one of the world’s economic hotspots, and the fastest growing areas of the UK economy.

About the role

Brunel University of London seeks talented and committed individuals to join our Council, the governing body that shapes our strategic direction and ensures our continued success. Council membership offers a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise and influence the future of a dynamic and impactful institution in the heart of London.

Our Council predominantly comprises accomplished professionals from diverse backgrounds, bringing invaluable perspectives, skills, and experience.

We welcome applications from individuals of the highest calibre who are passionate about higher education and committed to Brunel’s vision and values.

This is a chance to make a real impact, playing a pivotal role in setting the strategic direction of Brunel University of London and ensuring its financial stability and academic excellence. You will contribute your unique skills and experience, providing independent and constructive advice to our Executive Team.

You will help us deliver on our charitable objectives and enhance our reputation as a leading London university, while expanding your network with influential individuals from diverse sectors.

As a Council Member, you will contribute to the strategic planning and non-executive oversight of Brunel University of London. This includes ensuring the University’s performance against its strategic objectives is monitored and evaluated, collectively acting as a steward of the University’s financial resources and assets, and upholding the highest standards of governance and probity.

You will serve as an advocate for Brunel, promoting its achievements and ambitions. You will participate in Council meetings and sub-committee activities, ensuring the University complies with its Royal Charter, Statutes, Ordinances, and all legal obligations.

The Council meets on at least four occasions annually, with an additional away day. Members are expected to support at least one sub-committee, which typically also meets four times a year, with the exception of the Ethics Advisory Committee, which convenes as required. There are also various events throughout the year, such as briefing sessions, lectures, graduations, and other student-related activities, which Council members are encouraged to attend. Independent Council Members should expect to commit approximately 10 days per year, depending on committee membership and event attendance.

Brunel University London operates under a Royal Charter, first granted in 1966, and is governed by its Council, which includes a majority of independent (lay) members, as well as members of the Executive Team, and elected student and staff representatives. The Council is responsible for setting the University’s strategic direction, overseeing its financial performance and assets, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, and appointing the Vice-Chancellor and other senior officers. The Council delegates operational responsibilities to the Vice-Chancellor and President’s Executive Team, while maintaining oversight through its various sub-committees: Audit & Risk Committee, Finance Committee, Governance and Nominations Committee, Remuneration Committee, and the Ethics Advisory Committee.

Who we are looking for

Brunel University of London is seeking four exceptional leaders to join our Council and play a pivotal role in driving our ambitious vision forward.

We’re looking for innovative, inquisitive, and engaged individuals who are passionate about the transformative power of higher education and committed to making a tangible impact on society.

As a Council Member, you will leverage your expertise to provide strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring Brunel’s continued success and growth.

We are seeking individuals with a proven track record of:

• Finance, especially accountancy
• Business (in particular with connections to Uxbridge/Hillingdon and the wider West London community and/or with experience of strategic marketing leadership)
• Academic leadership
• Digital/cyber oversight

Experience of leading and implementing organisational change would also be especially beneficial.

We seek Council Members with:

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Unwavering personal integrity and ethical standards
• A deep commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
• A dedication to transparency and open governance
• A genuine passion for the advancement of higher education

Council Members are required to be ‘Fit and Proper Persons’ as determined by the Office for Students.

This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute your expertise to a dynamic university, shaping the future of education and making a lasting impact. If you are a senior leader with a keen interest in strategic governance and a desire to contribute to a thriving academic community, we encourage you to apply.

Timetable

Closing date: 9 a.m. Friday 25th April 2025
Candidates informed of outcome: By 6 p.m. Friday 2nd May 2025
First stage interviews: Thursday 8th May 2025
Second stage interviews: TBC