We are responsible for

• Developing the University's strategy and monitoring progress of commitments within the Strategic plan 2021-2026;
• Leading planning-related activities within the University and providing key management information;
• Delivering major strategic projects through effective and focused dedicated project management;
• Supporting the University’s governance structure and processes, acting as the primary contact point for OfS, HESA and with our internal audit partner;
• Providing and procuring legal advice on corporate and governance matters;
• Supporting business continuity and compliance through the effective management of risk, business continuity and emergency planning (staff only);
• Ensuring compliance with Freedom of Information and Data Protection regulations and the wider regulatory environment;
• Handling Student Complaints.

Governance

Governance Services delivers committee operations and governance advice which supports effective decision-making. The team is responsible for the care and servicing of the main governing bodies of the University: the Council and the Senate.

For more information, please visit the Governance page.

Student Complaints

The division takes responsibility for overseeing the Students Complaints Procedure and providing advice about the process.

For more information, please visit the Student Complaints page.

Legal and Compliance

The Governance Services team should be consulted when advice from external solicitors is required.

As a division we ensure compliance with the Prevent duty, Competition and Markets Authority, Modern Slavery Act, Bribery Act and Data Protection Legislation (see Information Governance).

External Speakers are assessed and approved by the University’s Registrar of Meetings, Simon Jennings.

Statement of Corporate Governance can be reviewed in the Financial Statements.

Internal Audit

Internal Audit provides a mechanism to give internal assurance to the University.

The overall goal of Internal Audit is to improve the University's operations across its various systems, policies and procedures and ensure that these provide value for money. As part of the regulatory requirements of its registration with the Office for Students, the University is required to have in place a comprehensive system of risk management, control and corporate governance.

The University’s day-to-day relationship with the internal audit partners (PriceWaterhouseCooper) is managed by the Director of Strategic Planning and Deputy Secretary, Simon Jennings.

For more information, including a explanatory guide aimed at staff who are hosting or contributing to an audit, please see the Internal Audit Explained page.

Academic Freedom and Free Speech

For more information on the University’s commitment to academic freedom and free speech, including relevant policies and regulations, please see the page on Academic Freedom and Free Speech.