Executive Director for Governance

About The Role

Our new Executive Director for Governance will play a pivotal role in supporting the Corporation, Chair and executive leadership team as the College delivers its ambitious strategic priorities.

Reporting directly to our Chair, David Wright, and operating as an independent governance professional, you will ensure that the Board and its committees function effectively, transparently and in full compliance with legal, statutory and regulatory requirements.

This is far more than a traditional governance role. As a member of the College’s executive team, our new Executive Director for Governance will help shape organisational effectiveness, support strategic decision-making and contribute to the continued development of a strong governance culture across the institution. The role combines governance leadership, policy oversight, legal and regulatory compliance, and board development, making it integral to the success of our long-term ambitions.

The successful candidate will have a range of key responsibilities. First and foremost, this will see you advise the Board on governance and compliance matters whilst overseeing Board and related committee processes. You will play a lead role in supporting governor recruitment and succession planning, leading induction and governor development programmes. Alongside this, you will coordinate external governance reviews and maintain an effective framework of policies, procedures and governance documentation.

The postholder will also oversee governance aspects of risk, assurance, information management and regulatory compliance, ensuring the highest standards of accountability and integrity are maintained throughout the organisation.

This is a role through which the successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a visible and lasting impact on the college and our local communities. You will strengthen relationships across the Board and senior leadership team, drive continuous improvement in governance processes, support the development of an evolving and ambitious Corporation, and help ensure Boston College is well positioned to achieve its vision of Brilliant Today, Better Tomorrow. For an experienced governance professional who wants to influence strategy, shape culture and contribute to meaningful organisational transformation, this represents an exceptional opportunity.

Who We Are Looking For

To take on this role as our new Executive Director for Governance, we seek a highly credible and accomplished governance professional who combines technical expertise with the ability to build strong relationships, influence stakeholders and drive improvement. The successful candidate will bring significant experience supporting boards, governing bodies or senior leadership teams within a regulated environment, ideally within further education, education, the public sector, higher education or the charitable sector.

You will possess a strong understanding of governance frameworks, regulatory compliance and board effectiveness, together with the judgement and integrity required to provide independent, impartial advice at the highest level. Experience of supporting board and committee meetings, developing governance documentation, managing policy frameworks, leading governor or trustee recruitment and development, and overseeing governance reviews will be highly valuable.

Beyond technical capability, this role requires an individual who is proactive, organised and delivery focused. Boston College is looking for someone who can quickly build credibility with governors and senior leaders, establish effective working relationships and make an impact from the outset. The ability to work at pace, manage competing priorities and translate ideas into practical outcomes will be essential.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, as is the confidence to challenge constructively, influence decision-making and champion the highest standards of governance, accountability and transparency.

Above all, candidates will share our commitment to continuous improvement and will be excited by the opportunity to contribute to an ambitious organisation undergoing significant growth, development and transformation.