Are you an excellent communicator and administrator, who is able to plan proactively, yet can be adaptable and think on their feet as/when needed? Are you able to listen to, understand, synthesise and record complex and technical discussions around finance, audit, academic and corporate governance themes? If so we would welcome your application for the role of Governance Support Officer.
The University has two key roles the busy Directorate of Governance and Assurance, making this an exciting time to join Kent.
In this role you will be part of a team which delivers the day-to-day secretariat services required to support the University's academic and corporate governance committees. You will be key to the University's governance secretariat function and will provide professional expertise and support to the Assistant Director (Governance) and the Head of Secretariat in a range of areas.
What will be your key accountabilities?
* Support a range of University committees to ensure that these have effective and efficient secretarial support and function in accordance with agreed internal and external standards and schedules, good practice and the correct legal framework(s)
* Assist in planning of the annual programme of work for each of the committees, drafting the overarching committee schedule and associated agenda planners
* Assist with recruitment or election, induction and ongoing support of committee members
* Support the AD Governance and Head of Secretariat in the ongoing review and drafting of the University's governing documents to ensure they are fit for purpose
What will you bring to this role?
* Demonstrable experience of senior board/committee administration, including agenda management and the taking of accurate and succinct minutes of meetings
* Proven experience of providing effective administrative support a large and complex organisation
* Excellent organisational and administrative skills and the ability to use initiative and effectively organise own workload to balance competing priorities
* Ability to produce clear and concise written materials, as well as effective research skills, and to communicate same
What can you expect from us?
* "Hybrid Working" allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (days to be agreed with the hiring manager in line with business needs)
* 43 days annual leave per annum (30 days personal leave, 8 bank holidays, plus 5 additional days allocated between Christmas and New Year)
* Excellent pension scheme (SAUL)
* A beautiful campus, including access to our on site theatre/cinema, sports facilities, library, on site nursery (Canterbury) and food outlets
* Great staff benefits, such as study while you work discounts, cycle to work scheme, local business discounts
* On site parking
* A friendly, open and collaborative working environment
* Support in your development and wellbeing at all stages of employment, including an Employee Assistance Program
The University of Kent is a distinctive and attractive place to work. We employ around 6,000 staff, including academic and research staff and a full range of support and administration staff. Our stunning main campus in Canterbury, Kent was founded in 1965 and is set among green and tranquil open space overlooking the spectacular Cathedral. Our staff enjoy competitive salaries, an occupational pension scheme, generous holiday entitlements and a great working environment.
Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact quoting ref number: CSF
* Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)
PLEASE NOTE: We prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.
We know applicants may use AI tools to help prepare job applications. For guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, see: Using AI in your job application
Applications must be made via the University's online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.
The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.
Section
Governance and Assurance
Location
Canterbury
Salary
£26,942 to £29,959 per annum
Grade
Grade 5
Post Type
Full Time
Contract Type
Permanent
Release Date
Wednesday 17 September 2025
Closing Date
23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 24 September 2025 (unless otherwise stated*)
Reference
CSF