Governor Opportunities (Board Member, and Co-opted to Committees) in Bristol

UWE Bristol is embedded in one of the UK’s most exciting cities and proud to serve our diverse communities by driving change in the way we learn, analyse and contribute to the world we live in. In 2024 we became the first university in the UK to achieve the University Mental Health Charter Award with Merit, and our groundbreaking student accommodation was recognised through the 2030 Climate Action award at the annual UK & Ireland Green Gown Awards. Through our education, research and enterprise, we are powering the future workforce, boosting the economy, improving the health and sustainability of our communities and creating solutions to global challenges. Inclusivity and the student experience sit at the heart of everything we do.

Our Board comprises individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, creating a supportive and questioning environment, working as a team in the interests of our University and the communities we serve. With a strong focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, UWE Bristol seeks governors from a wide range of backgrounds to benefit from the heritage and life experiences of individuals from our local communities and the wider region. Becoming a governor presents an exciting opportunity to impact positively the lives of over 40,000 learners, studying in 10 different countries, as well as our staff, communities, and the industries served by the University, while giving back from your personal and professional expertise. The role of governor is highly respected and personally rewarding. Leadership and working together as a team provide governors with an exciting opportunity to make a difference, as well as boost their individual career development. While the positions are voluntary and unpaid, governors are reimbursed for any expenses they may incur as they carry out their work. Individual applications will be considered on their individual merits and skillset.

We have opportunities on our Board of Governors and through co‑option on our committees, for individuals who share our passion for the potential of higher education and research, and who can help us strengthen our connections with business, employers and regional communities. If you share our vision for positive change and are an ambitious strategic thinker with an exceptional record of achievement at a senior level in any of the following areas, we want to hear from you.

• Membership on the Board of Governors: Law – preferably a corporate/commercial background.
• Co‑opted membership on committees: Estates master planning and commercial development.

We’ll support you throughout your time with us, starting with a tailored induction, and development opportunities along the way.

Positions are appointed on an initial term of office of 3 years, renewable for a further 3‑year term and whilst not remunerated, reasonable expenses are paid, and relevant training and development costs are covered. The time commitment of the Board of Governor role is estimated to average 15–20 days per year including involvement on Board committees. The role will primarily involve daytime engagements, although there are likely to be some evening commitments. Further details are given in the role description provided. The time commitment of a Co‑opted Committee membership role is estimated to average 4–5 days a year, and involves 3–4 meetings across that period, with the opportunity to attend other events. The role will primarily involve daytime engagements. Being a Co‑opted Committee Member brings a fantastic opportunity to enhance the skills and experience of a specific Committee, whilst learning more about university governance.

We are driven by excellence in all we do and are looking for excellent individuals whatever their background and we positively encourage and particularly welcome applications from groups that are under‑represented. This includes but is not restricted to those of Global Majority background and underrepresented groups, LGBTQ+, Disabled People and any other groups facing disadvantage and discrimination.

Interested applicants should send an up‑to‑date CV and covering letter (no more than one page of A4) to the Deputy Clerk Christine Gledhill at Chris.Gledhill@uwe.ac.uk by midnight, Sunday 1 March 2026. Interviews are expected to be held mid‑March.