Lay Members of Court

The University of Strathclyde is seeking to appoint two Lay Members to join the University’s governing body, the Court, and two co-opted members to join the University’s Audit and Risk Committee

We are a leading international technological university, that is socially progressive. Building on our Enlightenment roots as a “place of useful learning”, the University is recognised for engagement with business, industry, and the public sector world-class teaching and research and a deep commitment to innovation and enterprise.

Under the leadership of our Principal, Professor Sir Jim McDonald GBE FREng FRSE, our new strategic plan, Strathclyde 2030, sets out our ambitious programme for the next 6 years delivering academic excellence, operational effectiveness, and financial strength as we deliver world leading education and impactful research, continually investing to further develop our global and local contribution to society.

The University is seeking to appoint two Lay Members to join the Court. Lay Members bring knowledge and expertise to the Court’s deliberations. Their principal assets will be their independence, detachment and the provision of an external view, alongside specialist skills in particular areas.

• The proper conduct of public business;
• Enabling the University to achieve its stated aims and objectives;
• Ensuring the solvency and safeguarding the assets of the University;
• Overseeing the strategic management of the University;
• Monitoring performance against the targets set; and
• Protecting the reputation and values of the University

The time required of members of Court will vary but will not normally be less than the equivalent of one day per month (or 12 days per annum). There are currently five scheduled meetings of Court per annum, one of these (November) being conducted over two days.
Members also normally serve on at least one of the University’s main committees. The main commitment will be during the period September to June, and the main time commitment will be spent reading and preparing for meetings. For those who are members of other committees or groups as well, the time commitment will be greater.

The qualities required of members of Court include:

• Commitment to the University, its values and its objectives;
• The ability to discuss a wide range of matters in a respectful and professional manner;
• An appreciation of the broad social, economic and other trends affecting universities;
• The capacity to question information and explanations supplied by officers of the
  University;
• Common sense, honesty and integrity

Court has a mix of specialist skill sets and vacancies currently exist for two Lay Members with knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Digital and/or cyber security;
• Environmental Sustainability;
• Estates;
• Equality and Diversity;
• Legal services;
• Public and/or private sector financial management, audit, risk management and
  compliance;
• Public relations and/or communications.