Challenge
Northumbria University sought to strengthen its governance framework amidst leadership transition and the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. The newly appointed Chair, Dr Roberta Blackman Woods, initiated a comprehensive Governance Effectiveness Review to:
- Establish a clear baseline of governance effectiveness
- Address the impact of the pandemic on governance practices
- Identify opportunities to streamline and enhance existing arrangements
Whether you’re navigating leadership transitions, enhancing risk management, or embedding sustainability into your governance structures, our tailored consultancy can help you achieve lasting impact.
Our approach
AdvAdvance HE was selected for its deep sector expertise and collaborative methodology. The review was structured around:
- A clear, transparent framework document
- Surveys and interviews with Governors and Executive members
- Observations of a full governance cycle (conducted online due to COVID)
- Oversight by a Steering Group to ensure transparency and alignment
Key outcomes and impact
New strategic discussion programme: Broadened the Board’s understanding of sector-wide challenges and laid the foundation for the University Strategy 2024–2030.
Strategic risk policy and appetite statement: Approved in March 2022, enabling deeper engagement with risk and more frequent reviews of the Strategic Risk Register.
Joint workshops: Fostered mutual understanding between the Board of Governors and Academic Board, improving assurance and challenge mechanisms.
Environmental sustainability: Embedded into the Strategic Performance Committee’s remit, aligning governance with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Diversity in recruitment: Successfully appointed two BAME governors, enriching Board discussions and perspectives.
Updated governance documents: First major revision in 10 years, including the Instrument and Articles of Government and Governance Regulations.
Overhauled processes for staff, student, and independent governors, with improved documentation, mentoring, and onboarding.
Implementation strategy
The Board created a Task and Finish Group to oversee delivery of 27 recommendations across four workstreams:
1. Academic Governance & Stakeholder Engagement
2. Board & Committee Membership & Organisation
3. Strategy, Performance & Risk
4. Diversity, Recruitment, Induction & Training
Each workstream was led by a Governor and Executive member, supported by Governance Services, with progress reported at every Board meeting until completion in April 2022.
Why institutions choose Advance HE
Advance HE is trusted by universities and colleges worldwide to deliver expert, evidence-based support that drives meaningful change. Institutions choose us because we offer:
- Deep sector expertise
- Collaborative, tailored approach
- Proven frameworks and tools
- Commitment to inclusive excellence
- Global perspective, local relevance
