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- Tasks: Join the University Court to shape strategic direction and oversee performance.
- Company: Edinburgh Napier University is a modern institution with nearly 20,000 students and a global community.
- Benefits: Part-time voluntary role with travel expenses reimbursed and opportunities for future appointments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education while gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Qualifications: Seeking experienced individuals from various sectors, including academia, finance, and politics.
- Other info: Engage informally until full appointment; commitment to diversity welcomed.
Edinburgh Napier University is seeking to appoint new lay (external) members to its governing body, the University Court. Edinburgh Napier University is a modern, enterprising institution committed to impactful education and research. With nearly 20,000 students and over 1,800 staff, we are a global community across three campuses in Edinburgh, online platforms, and partner institutions worldwide.
We place a strong emphasis on integrating work-based learning, cutting-edge research, and graduate employability skills across more than 250 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Working with the Principal and her executive team, the Court, along with its committees, helps shape the University’s strategic direction and oversees its performance to ensure it delivers its vision, values, and strategic objectives, and meets its statutory obligations.
Court members have a strong commitment to higher education and bring significant experience of operating at a high level in any business or organization in the private, public, or not-for-profit sectors. They provide an outside perspective, diversity of thought, and help facilitate opportunities for the University.
In addition to filling its immediate vacancies, the Court is keen to identify individuals who would be willing to accept full appointment to the Court when future vacancies arise and would engage with the Court on an informal basis until that point. We are currently seeking individuals with specific skill sets to support the work of the Court:
- An academic leader to bolster our HE expertise on Court.
- An academic leader with deep REF experience.
- An expert in the Scottish college sector, ideally a College Principal or ex-College Principal.
- A Finance expert with significant experience.
- An actively engaged expert in Scottish politics.
- CEO or COO of a large Scottish company or chair of a Chamber of Commerce.
- Strategic IT Director from a large company.
The University is committed to achieving a diverse governing body and welcomes applications from all suitably experienced individuals, particularly those who would further enhance its diversity. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. These posts are part-time (around 12 working days per annum) voluntary opportunities for an initial term of 4 years. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Closing date: 11th April 2025.
Lay Court Member employer: Edinburgh Napier University
Contact Detail:
Edinburgh Napier University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lay Court Member
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current or former members of the University Court to gain insights into their experiences and expectations. This can help you understand what qualities they value and how you can position yourself as a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Edinburgh Napier University's strategic objectives and recent initiatives. Being well-informed about the university's direction will allow you to demonstrate your alignment with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider attending events or forums related to higher education in Scotland. Engaging in these spaces can help you build connections and showcase your commitment to the sector, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how your specific skills and experiences can contribute to the diversity and effectiveness of the Court. Tailoring your conversation to highlight your unique perspective will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Lay Court Member
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Lay Court Member at Edinburgh Napier University. Familiarise yourself with the university's mission, values, and strategic objectives to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in higher education, governance, or any relevant sector. Be specific about your roles and achievements that align with the skills they are seeking, such as leadership in academia, finance, or strategic IT.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the position but also demonstrate your understanding of the university's needs. Discuss how your background and expertise can contribute to the Court's strategic direction and diversity.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a role at this level.
How to prepare for a job interview at Edinburgh Napier University
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what being a Lay Court Member entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and expectations outlined in the job description, as well as the strategic objectives of Edinburgh Napier University.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience that aligns with the specific skill sets they are looking for. Whether it's your background in higher education, finance, or Scottish politics, be ready to provide examples of how your expertise can contribute to the Court's work.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Diversity
Edinburgh Napier University values diversity within its governing body. Be prepared to discuss how your unique perspective and experiences can enhance the diversity of thought on the Court and contribute to its mission.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay informed about current trends and challenges in higher education, particularly in Scotland. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will demonstrate your engagement and commitment to the sector, making you a more attractive candidate.
