The instrument of government will set out the titles or designation of senior officers. Although there are some variations, the three main officers are the vice-chancellor, the clerk or secretary and the chair of the governing body.
The chair of the governing body (the word 'chairman' is usually used in the instruments of governance) is responsible for leadership of the governing body and is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the governing body operates effectively and efficiently. The chair plays a key role in the business of the institution through working closely with the vice-chancellor or principal and the clerk or secretary, but should be take care not to be drawn too much into the day-to-day executive management of the institution.
A constructive working relationship between the chair and the chief executive is essential for the effective working of the governing body. The National Audit Office have emphasised the need for both sides to recognise that the two roles are formally distinct – they should be mutually supportive, but also incorporate checks and balances imposed by the different roles each has within the institution’s constitution. Draft guidance from the ICSA emphasises the vital role played by the chair in delivering an effective board.
In church universities/colleges the appointment of the chair of the governing body may be different from other institutions depending on the individual instruments of governance, for example it may be a specific individual holding a key post (or a nominee) related to the providing body. There may also be no time limit to the appointment.
The CUC Guide further defines the role of the chair (page 20). A template for a role description of the chair and a note on the appointment and recruitment of a governing body chair can be found on the CUC web site.
HEFCE has indicated in the Financial Memorandum that it will write to newly-appointed chairs of governing bodies in England drawing attention to their own and their governing body's responsibilities under the FM.
Powerpoint presentation:
The Chair's Approach to Governance Roles and Boundaries, Andrew Wilkinson, Chair of Governors, University of Wales Newport and Chair of CHEW