Governance Manager and Assistant Secretary

About the role

We are seeking a Governance Manager and Assistant Secretary to support the University Secretary in delivering effective governance for a higher education institution. The role involves coordinating Council and committee activities, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, and providing senior leaders with the information they need to make informed decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Support the University Secretary in providing high‑level governance advice to the Council and senior leaders.
• Coordinate the annual cycle of Council and committee meetings, preparing agendas, papers and supporting documentation.
• Draft reports, briefings, minutes and communications for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain and enhance governance systems and platforms, including Microsoft Teams and SharePoint.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding and development of Council members.
• Organise virtual and in‑person meetings, events and governance activities.
• Support governance reviews, statutory reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and implement governance policies, procedures and frameworks.
• Build effective relationships with governors, senior leaders and key stakeholders.

Required profile

• Experience in governance, board support, committee management or company secretarial roles, preferably in higher education, the public sector, charity or other regulated environments.
• Proven ability to work with senior leaders, trustees, governors or executive committees.
• Demonstrated discretion in handling highly confidential and sensitive information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing reports, briefing papers and meeting documentation.

Required skills

• Microsoft Teams
• SharePoint

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Fixed‑term contract (up to 4 months initially) with the possibility of extension
• Hybrid working model – 4 days onsite per week