Director of Governance

What does it take to lead governance at one of the world’s leading universities? As Director of Governance at Imperial College London, you'll own the full governance framework of an institution that's shaping the future of science, technology and humanity. In this senior leadership role at the heart of Imperial, you’ll be working with Council, the University Management Board, and the most senior figures across the University to make sure our governance is as world-class as our research.

What you would be doing

• Set the standard for what excellent governance looks like, leading a talented team and working at the highest levels of the University to ensure effective decision-making, clear accountability, and the proper discharge of Council’s responsibilities.
• Provide expert secretariat support to Council, University Management Board, and the various Committees that the University Governance Team supports.
• Take ownership of Council effectiveness, including succession planning and member engagement beyond formal meetings.
• Lead Imperial's implementation of the CUC Code, providing proactive, strategic advice.
• Maintain oversight of key governance mechanisms – from conflicts of interest registers to the annual governance cycle.
• Take ownership of the governance architecture itself: the ordinances, regulations, delegations and decision pathways that underpin how Imperial operates.
• Proactively track developments in the higher education sector, embrace digital and AI‑enabled solutions, and drive targeted improvements that make governance more accessible, effective and fit for a world‑leading institution.
• Lead the Honours and Awards process end‑to‑end, manage the team's operational budget, and represent Imperial on relevant external and sector groups.
• Deputise for the Registrar & University Secretary and the Chief Legal Officer and Deputy University Secretary as required.

What we are looking for

• An experienced governance professional who combines strategic thinking with a genuine passion for doing things well.
• A strong track record of delivering high‑quality governance services in a complex organisation.
• Proven experience of developing and implementing an effective governance strategy, with well‑run committee cycles that support both strategic and operational goals.
• Demonstrable expertise in ensuring governance arrangements enable clear accountability, effective decision‑making and the proper discharge of responsibilities.
• Experience leading and advising on a broad range of governance matters, including policy development and the practical application of governance frameworks.
• The ability to build and lead inclusive, high‑performing teams, supporting people to grow and deliver to the highest standards.
• Sound knowledge of corporate governance and how governance architecture works in practice across a complex institution.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills – comfortable working with senior leaders, independent Council members and colleagues at every level.
• The highest levels of integrity, discretion and diplomacy, with a proven ability to handle sensitive information with care and confidence.
• Exceptional organisational skills and the resilience to manage a fast‑paced, varied workload without losing sight of quality.
• A degree‑level education (or equivalent experience), with relevant training or qualification in governance or company secretarial best practice.
• Knowledge and experience of the Higher Education sector.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to work at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Benefit from a sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on‑site leisure facilities and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Interest‑free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information: With reference to each of the individual essential requirements listed in the person specification, please provide specific information describing how you meet these requirements. Please tell us how your work experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, are relevant in no more than 2 sides of A4. If you require any further details on the role please contact Bridget Edminson, Chief Legal Officer & Deputy University, on b.edminson@imperial.ac.uk. Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.