Independent Governor
London and South East University Group
Unremunerated | London & Kent
London and South East University Group is being established as the UK’s first pioneering multi-university group, bringing together the University of Greenwich and the University of Kent into a single legal entity from 1 August 2026. This ground-breaking merger will form a new, future-focused higher education group that combines scale, academic strength and civic purpose while preserving the distinct identities of its academic divisions.
We are now seeking to appoint 2–4 exceptional Independent Governors to join the Board Designate during this formative period. These appointments will shape not only the effectiveness of the new Board, but also the culture, tone and credibility of governance for years to come.
The Opportunity
The Board of Governors will serve as the Group’s board of directors and trustees, responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing performance and ensuring the delivery of the Group’s ambitions.
Governors appointed at this stage will contribute during a critical period of organisational formation and integration. They will play an important role in shaping how the Board operates collectively, providing confident stewardship through a period of transformation while helping position the Group for long-term success.
London and South East University Group will be one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK and the largest in the South of England. It will play a significant role in widening access to higher education, strengthening regional skills, driving impactful research and supporting economic growth across London and the South East.
This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the creation of a new governance model in UK higher education at a pivotal time for the sector, and to be part of shaping an institution with the scale and ambition to make a lasting impact.
The proposed name of London and South East University Group is currently undergoing formal consultation with the Office for Students, expected to conclude in the coming months.
Who We Are Seeking
We are seeking individuals who bring the judgement, independence and experience required to operate effectively as non-executive governors within a complex and evolving organisation.
Candidates will typically demonstrate:
* Senior executive or non-executive experience operating at board level
* Strong strategic judgement, commercial insight and financial awareness
* Experience contributing to organisational transformation, growth or complex change
* The ability to provide constructive challenge while working collaboratively as part of a collective board
* A clear understanding of the distinction between governance and executive management
* Personal integrity aligned with the Seven Principles of Public Life
Given the scale and ambition of the new Group, experience in areas such as digital transformation, cyber security, governance and risk oversight, or large-scale organisational change would be particularly valuable.
The most important qualities, however, will be sound judgement, breadth of perspective and the ability to contribute strategically to the development of the Group as a whole.
We welcome candidates from across sectors who are motivated by social purpose and who bring independence of thought, intellectual curiosity and the confidence to contribute during a period of institutional formation and long-term development.
Commitment
Independent Governors are appointed for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of renewal. The Board is expected to meet five times per academic year, alongside strategy sessions and committee meetings. Time commitment is likely to be higher during the first 1–2 years of the Group’s operation.
These roles are unremunerated, although reasonable expenses may be reclaimed.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
London and South East University Group is committed to inclusive governance. We encourage applications from individuals whose lived experience, professional background or perspective will broaden the Board’s collective insight and strengthen decision-making.
How to Apply
For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact:
Helene Usherwood, Senior Partner at Anderson Quigley
helene.usherwood@andersonquigley.com | +44 (0)7719 322 669
or
Elyse Turner-Pearce, Consultant at Anderson Quigley
elyse.turner-pearce@andersonquigley.com | +44 (0)7808 648 559
Closing date: 10 April 2026