Job Overview and Explanation

This position is a governance-focused leadership role within GEDU (Global Education Development University). The successful candidate will oversee the professional and seamless delivery of corporate governance across GEDU’s institutions and entities. This involves providing high-quality support to senior decision-making bodies such as the Board of Directors, Executive Boards, and their standing committees. Additionally, the role entails guiding the development of governance processes and procedures informed by both national and international standards, policies, and best practices in corporate governance, particularly within the context of higher education (HE).

This is an ideal opportunity for those with a strong understanding of higher education governance, risk management, and the ability to drive critical organizational compliance. The role sits at the intersection of corporate and academic governance, requiring outstanding organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to engage with senior leadership teams. It is equally a chance to contribute to GEDU’s growth as a global educational institution.

Advice for Applicants – An International Education Perspective

1. Understand the Academic and Corporate Landscape:

Before applying, familiarize yourself with the nuances of governance in both academic and corporate environments. In higher education institutions, governance blends compliance, risk management, strategic planning, and ensuring operational efficiency. For this particular role, a good grasp of governance frameworks specific to the United Kingdom and Europe as well as international standards is critical, especially if GEDU operates across multiple campuses globally.

1. Highlight Experience in Higher Education Governance:

The job requires a robust understanding of HE governance, including committee operations, academic board structures, and corporate accountability. When applying, showcase your previous experience working in or alongside educational bodies, academic leadership, or corporate advisory roles. Provide tangible examples of how you improved governance frameworks, managed risk, or demonstrated thought leadership within an HE context.

1. Governance and Policy Acumen:

If you’ve worked with compliance standards such as the UK Higher Education Code of Governance, or governance principles from organizations like CUC (Committee of University Chairs), this is the time to highlight it. Bonus points if you have worked with international frameworks or policies that influence governance practices in global education institutions.

1. Communication is Key:

Given that the role involves crafting high-quality agendas, minutes, and reports, as well as providing advice to senior leaders, your ability to write clearly and succinctly will be scrutinized. In your application, you might consider attaching examples of your written work (e.g., anonymized meeting notes, reports, or policy documents).

1. International Context and Willingness to Travel:

GEDU functions with global campuses and partnerships, so this role demands a willingness to travel to European and UK-based campuses. Applicants with cross-cultural experience or a proven ability to collaborate across international teams will stand out. Mention any international projects, collaborations, or governance responsibilities you’ve undertaken, and demonstrate your cultural agility.

1. Developing Risk Management Expertise:

Risk management is a desirable skill in this position. If you lack formal experience in this area, consider emphasizing your willingness to learn and invest in continuous professional development, such as working towards governance or compliance qualifications. Proactively mentioning certifications like the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) or corporate governance credentials from The Chartered Governance Institute can set you apart.

1. Leadership and Team Collaboration:

The role involves line management of a Governance Officer and active engagement with senior team members. Showcase examples of managing or mentoring colleagues, leading projects, or facilitating collaboration between different teams or organizational levels.

1. Customization for International Candidates:

If you are applying from outside the UK, emphasize any experience you have in navigating international governance structures or policies, particularly in the higher education sector. Familiarity with laws and regulatory frameworks across multiple jurisdictions will be an asset. Clearly communicate your ability to adapt to the UK’s governance expectations while contributing insights from your home country or region.

Key Strengths to Highlight When Applying

• Governance Expertise: Highlight your knowledge of academic and corporate governance procedures.
• Communication Skills: Showcase your ability to produce clear and high-quality documentation and reports.
• Organizational Acumen: Demonstrate how you’ve successfully coordinated governance activities, such as planning committee calendars or election processes.
• Interpersonal Skills: Focus on your track record of building relationships with senior stakeholders across an institution or organization.
• Commitment to Professional Development: Show your openness to gaining qualifications in corporate governance or related areas (e.g., ACG/FCG qualifications).
• Experience with Risk Management: If you have it, emphasize your ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across departments or projects.

Next Steps for Applicants

If you meet the criteria and are inspired by the opportunity to contribute to GEDU’s global mission, ensure your application demonstrates the following:

1. Tailored CV/Resume: Focus on governance roles, risk management, and higher education experience, aligning your experience with the job description’s key duties.
2. Cover Letter: Detail why you are passionate about governance in higher education, how your expertise makes you a strong match for this role, and provide specific examples of your success in similar roles.
3. References and Portfolio: Be ready to provide credible references or evidence of your governance skills, such as previous work on governance frameworks or committee support.
4. Prepare for an Interview: Be ready to discuss your understanding of governance trends in the international education sector, your ability to communicate with executive teams, and how you’ll manage cross-campus governance processes.

By focusing on your governance expertise combined with your ability to work in an international and higher education context, you can make a compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for this position