Royal Holloway, University of London Chair of Council
Make your application after reading the following skill and qualification requirements for this position.
Royal Holloway, University of London is a University of Social Purpose, committed to excellent education, impactful research, an inclusive culture and positive societal contribution. Founded on the pioneering principles of Bedford College and Royal Holloway College, the University combines a proud history with ambitious plans for the future. Its community is guided by four values – Respectful, Innovative, Open and Daring – and by a deep commitment to equity, inclusion and academic excellence.
The University now seeks to appoint a Chair of Council to lead its governing body. The Chair will play a vital role in shaping Royal Holloway’s future, ensuring that the institution remains true to its mission, values and long‑term priorities, and that it serves the interests of students, colleagues and wider stakeholders in a complex and highly regulated environment.
Working in close partnership with the Vice‑Chancellor and Principal, the Chair will provide strategic leadership to Council, ensuring that governance is effective, transparent and aligned with the highest standards of public life. They will promote a strong sense of shared vision, ambition and collective purpose across Council and between Council and the Executive, respecting the clear distinction between governance and executive management.
Central to the role is building and sustaining a Council culture characterised by openness, integrity and inclusivity. The Chair will foster an environment of constructive curiosity, where thoughtful questioning and evidence‑informed challenge are welcomed, and where risks and issues can be explored candidly and without fear, in service of the University’s long‑term success.
The successful candidate will bring significant board‑level leadership and chairing experience within large, complex and values‑driven organisations. They will demonstrate sound judgement, independence of mind and a strong understanding of good governance, alongside the ability to build trusting, respectful relationships with a diverse academic community, students and external stakeholders. They will combine authority with empathy, integrity and diplomacy, and will show a clear commitment to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion through their leadership practice.
As an ambassador for Royal Holloway, the Chair will represent the University externally, helping to build confidence in its governance, values and future direction; its reputation and influence; and its long‑term sustainability. xwzovoh
This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a thriving academic community and to support an institution with strong values, social purpose and ambitious plans for generations to come. If you are excited by the opportunity to shape the future direction of the University in this role, we would be delighted to hear from you.
The closing date for expressions of interest is Friday 22nd May 2026.
Further information, including a full brief, can be found at:
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