The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) has been a passionate advocate for creative education and research for 160 years, and in 2019, it was named the Times and Sunday Times Modern University of the Year. UCA believes that creativity makes global communities more vibrant, more innovative, more human. Its campuses across Surrey and Kent, its Institute for Creativity & Innovation in Xiamen, China, and its homes within partner organisations, such as the Maidstone Television Studios, all have one thing in common: they are places to forge inspiring partnerships, make work with purpose and build real solutions to human problems across the globe—whether as part of its vibrant teaching and research community, or as a student on one of its courses.

Offering courses in Architecture, Crafts, Fashion, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Art, Photography, Film, Media, the Performing Arts and Creative Business, UCA's programmes are acclaimed for their top teaching quality, and are highly respected by creative sector employers. Its Communications and Media, and Business and Management courses, for example, are currently ranked first in the United Kingdom for teaching quality by the Times and Sunday Times.

Overseen by President & Vice-Chancellor Professor Bashir Makhoul, UCA’s 10-year strategy aims to develop and grow the University by enhancing the creative experience, and focusing on building employability, inclusivity and diversity. One of its key priorities is internationalisation and cultural exchange. It aims to build partnerships with educational institutions to deliver high-level creative education opportunities in more locations internationally. As it continues to grow its reach, its impact and its outstanding educational outcomes, it is an exciting time to join UCA.

As the governing body of the University for the Creative Arts, the Board of Governors has overall responsibility for all of the University’s activities. The Board is accountable for the financial solvency of the University, its sound management, and the quality of the service which it provides; it is also accountable for the proper use of the public funds entrusted to it. The Board determines the strategic direction of the University’s development, and the strategic direction should inform its decisions in exercising its powers and undertaking its duties. The Board is not involved in the day-to-day management of the University but establishes and maintains the framework within which it operates

The Board’s duties are defined in the University’s Articles of Government. These include:

• Determining the educational character and mission of the University and overseeing its activities
• The effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of the University and safeguarding its assets
• Approving annual estimates of income and expenditure
• The appointment, grading, suspension, dismissal and determination of pay and conditions of service of holders of senior posts
• Setting the framework for the pay and conditions of service of all other staff
• The appointment of external auditors

 The Role Description for Board Members is available here.

Governor (Finance)

UCA seeks a Governor with a senior finance background or broad commercial background. This is an excellent opportunity for a high-achieving, business-minded, individual who has strong financial acumen and can advise, challenge and guide the board and other senior stakeholders on finance and business matters.

As UCA is embarking on several major estates projects, a background in finance within an estates/real estate context would be welcomed but is not essential.  

All candidates will be collaborative, thoughtful and reasoned. They will be excellent communicators and will have the ability to challenge constructively whilst being able to see the bigger picture. Experience in education or the arts is absolutely not necessary, but applicants should have a real passion for the University's mission and an interest in the power of creativity

Individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds or other under-represented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.

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Governor (Higher Education)

UCA would like to appoint a Governor with a senior background in higher education, particularly in transnational higher education. The successful candidate will be comfortable with working in complex environments and change management. They will bring experience of contributing at a strategic level, and bring an in-depth understanding of the higher education environment. This could be, for example, as a former Vice-Chancellor,Deputy Vice-Chancellor, or university governor, who has dealt with internationalisation or international expansion.

All candidates will be collaborative, thoughtful and reasoned. They will be excellent communicators and will have the ability to challenge constructively whilst being able to see the bigger picture. Experience in the arts is absolutely not necessary, but applicants should have a real passion for the University's mission and an interest in the power of creativity.

Individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds or other under-represented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.

There are four Board meetings per year. Additionally, Governors are usually expected to serve on at least one Committee, and each Committee normally meets up to four times per year. UCA is open to non-UK-based applicants who may attend most meetings virtually, but some in-person engagement is expected. The role is unremunerated but reasonable domestic travel expenses will be reimbursed. Additionally, there will usually be one in-person away day. The appointment is for a three-year term, twice renewable.