Group Director of Governance & Company Secretary
New City College (NCC) is seeking an experienced Group Director of Governance and Company Secretary to serve as the unbiased, impartial strategic advisor to the Board and senior leadership team on all matters related to governance and compliance.
Location: East London and Essex
Who we are
NCC is a sector‑leading college group with campuses across East London and South‑West Essex. With a turnover of £130m, 20,000 students and 2,000 staff it holds an Ofsted Outstanding rating and is recognised for its commitment to high quality education, inclusive and diverse communities, and forward‑thinking strategic direction.
About the role
The Group Director will provide a full and comprehensive secretariat and advisory support to the Governing Body and its Committees, supporting the Chair, Rob Hull, and the Corporation Members. You will advise the Board on constitutional matters, duties, and powers, conduct research and development activities to ensure the governance approach is based on sector best practice, and lead all aspects of Board induction and development.
Responsibilities
* Serve as the key advisory partner to the Board on constitutional, statutory and regulatory matters.
* Lead the development and implementation of governance systems, risk management and compliance frameworks.
* Support the Chair and senior leadership in planning and delivering Board business, including briefing papers, minutes, and governance documents.
* Design and facilitate a self‑evaluation process aligned to relevant Codes of Good Governance.
* Build trusting relationships with all Board members, ensuring communication and active engagement.
* Advise on and lead statutory and regulatory compliance, policy development and organisational governance.
* Lead Board induction and ongoing development programmes, ensuring that Governors have the knowledge and skills to fulfill their duties.
* Manage membership reviews and uphold diversification of the Board, reflecting community representation.
* Provide independent, high‑quality guidance on operational and ethical issues affecting the Board and its committees.
* Prepare briefing documents and ensure timely delivery of information to support informed Board decision‑making.
Qualifications
* Substantial experience as a Director of Governance, Governance Lead, Head of Governance, or Board/Company Secretary.
* Preferred experience supporting a further education governing body, with a strong grasp of legislative requirements and the regulatory environment of a large, complex college group.
* Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively with senior leadership.
* Strong desire to work for a forward‑thinking education and skills provider dedicated to improving the life chances of thousands of learners.
Additional Skills
* Exceptional networking and communication skills, with experience presenting to the Board.
* Proven track record of developing and mentoring board members.
* Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and able to manage competing priorities.
* Strong facilitation and influencing abilities across diverse stakeholder groups.
Application
To learn more about the role, please contact Sarah Atkins‑Boal. Alternatively, submit your CV and a supporting statement to response@peridotpartners.co.uk with the subject line: Application: New City College — Group Director of Governance & Company Secretary.
Equal Opportunities
NCC is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to upholding diversity, inclusion and a fair recruitment process for all applicants.
All staff and volunteers are subject to enhanced DBS and child‑protection checks. NCC is a Disability Confident and Committed Employer and we welcome applications from disabled candidates.
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