AECC University College is a specialist health sciences HE provider, which opened in 1965. For more than 50 years it has been at the forefront of musculoskeletal health and wellbeing. As a specialist health sciences institution, it offers over 26 courses in a range of health sciences including chiropractic, radiology, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, sport and psychology, and more recently speech and language, podiatry, dietetics and occupational therapy. The University aims to transform lives through health sciences, education and research and were granted Taught Degree Awarding Powers and University College status in 2017.

AECC University College has strong relationships with universities, funding bodies, a broad range of health partners, governments, student associations, professional associations, businesses and communities nationally and internationally. The University works very closely with its local NHS partners, providing services to NHS patients as well as providing clinical and rehabilitation services through a self-referral service for anyone needing support.

The University's research is presented at conferences around the world and is a key development priority for the University. With state-of-the-art facilities, including a busy student clinic and an Integrated Rehabilitation Clinic, its location on the beautiful Bournemouth coast makes it a highly attractive option for students looking to pursue a career in health sciences.

AECC University College is on an exciting journey of growth and development. Following an increase in its revenue by 60% in recent years, the University is now looking to develop its estate and continue to expand its course offering. As it looks forward, AECC University College is eager to increase its support to the local community and increase the diversity of its community, whilst engaging further with local young people, encouraging them to pursue a career in health sciences. AECC University College's exciting Corporate Strategy 2021-2026 can be found here. 

Overall purpose of the role:

• To take ultimate responsibility for the governance of the institution
• To determine strategic priorities for the institution and delegate authority for the delivery of these priorities to the Vice-Chancellor
• To oversee the affairs of the institution, ensuring that it is solvent, well-run and delivering agreed strategic objectives
• To ensure that the institution complies with all relevant legal, constitutional and regulatory requirements
• To contribute to and share responsibility for the Board’s decisions including its duty to exercise reasonable care, skills and independent judgement
• To uphold the core values of the institution through high standards of conduct and behaviour as set out in the Nolan Principles and by complying with the Institution’s Code of Conduct for Governors, Articles of Association, Scheme of Delegation and Financial Regulations
• To always act in the Institution’s best interest
  

Corporate responsibilities:

• To ensure that a robust framework is in place for management of risk, internal control and the safeguarding of the Institution’s assets
• To hold the Executive Team to account for delivery of strategic objectives and for maintaining high standards of service performance
• To follow external trends and influences which affect the Institution and maintain an awareness of developments in Higher Education
• To ensure the Board receives accurate, reliable and timely reports to enable it to take informed, clear and strategic decisions
• To scrutinise and evaluate the Institution’s performance in relation to its strategies and financial plans
• To apply knowledge and experience effectively when dealing with matters being considered by the Board
• To establish strong working relationships within and between the Board, the Executive Team and other senior colleagues
• To work with all colleagues so that the business is seen as a fair, caring, trusting, respectful and open Institution which values its people and attracts and retains the best talent
• To help drive the delivery of equality and diversity, safeguarding and sustainability plans, ensuring that they are effectively integrated into all aspects of corporate life
• To uphold the Code of Conduct for Governors and the Committee of University Chairs (CUC) Higher Education Code of Governance
• To participate in learning and development activities as an individual and as part of the Board including participating in appraisals and effectiveness reviews

AECC University College is currently seeking to appoint new Governors to the Board as a result of current members retiring. They will provide strong governance, advice and act as a critical friend to the wider Board and Executive team on various matters relating to their specialism and more broadly. Individuals will provide experience of contributing to the shaping of strategy and review of performance objectives, have the ability to maintain a strategic focus, and to challenge management decision-making processes and outcomes.

The new Governors will bring a range of skills, experience and diverse perspectives. The Board is particularly interested in hearing from individuals with the following skillsets: finance, audit and accountancy, marketing, digital transformation and technology, community engagement / public health or higher education. Along with their particular specialism, individuals will already be operating at a senior strategic level. Though they do not need previous board experience, they will have a good understanding of the differences between a non-executive role and an executive position. In addition, they will be collaborative, dynamic, engaged and will bring a commercial /  entrepreneurial mindset. Experience of complex organisations that are heavily regulated or publicly funded could be beneficial.

Candidates will have a full on-boarding programme and will be matched with an existing Governor to ensure a smooth induction process. Above all, Governors will have a commitment to the vision and values of the University, be enthusiastic about its development and have the time to commit to the role.

To find out more about the Board of Governors, please see here. 

The Board meets four times a year in addition to the sub-committee meetings, which are held three to four times a year. Though there can be occasional flexibility to join meetings virtually, both Board and Sub-Committee meetings are held in-person. Other briefings may take place between meetings and individuals will need to factor the time to prepare for meetings. The roles are not remunerated, although reasonable expenses are reimbursed. The role is for a three-year term, renewable up to nine years.

UK - South West (Bournemouth)

AECC University College welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. The University is always keen to increase the diversity of Council and would particularly welcome applications from women, those from ethnic minorities and various marginalised backgrounds. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process.