Non-Executive Directors
University of Suffolk
Based at Waterfront Building, 19 Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QJ. Some remote attendance at committee / ad hoc meetings.
Voluntary basis, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
The University of Suffolk was originally established as University Campus Suffolk (UCS) in 2007 to transform the provision of higher education in Suffolk and beyond, before gaining independence in August 2016 to become the University of Suffolk.
We are unique and proud to be different. We are one of the newest UK universities; that means we do not just rely on our heritage, but we focus on making history and making our name. Our identity and our proposition have always been founded on a bold vision for change: as a newer kind of higher education establishment, we are open-minded and custom built for today’s modern and fast-moving world. Our purpose is simple: to change lives of individuals and communities – for the better.
We also have a clear vision: by the end of this decade, we will be recognised as an empowering force for individual and community growth and development. At the heart of that mission lies our responsibility to be a model for a newer type of civic university: to embrace aspiration, become one of the key business support agencies in the region, helping to regenerate our local economy, and being provider of choice.
THE ROLE
Achieving our vision requires an engaged and versatile Board who can support our Vice-Chancellor and her executive team. At an unpredictable time in the UK, in global affairs, and in Higher Education, our Non-executive Directors are focused on innovation, partnership and on achieving the long-term financial sustainability necessary to sustain our impact.
We are seeking up to seven new independent Non-executive Board Directors to succeed colleagues who reach the end of their term in Autumn 2026 and March 2027.
New Directors will bring with them new skills, knowledge and perspective, ensuring that together we achieve the performance and diversity of thought needed to address an unprecedented range of needs and opportunities. We are looking for specific backgrounds, including audit and risk, estates and property management, legal, people and culture, and HE Research and Development. As new and emerging technologies play a fundamental role in University life, we’re also interested in people who have expertise in digital innovation and AI and those with a strong connection to business circles and networks in Ipswich and Suffolk.
If you want be part of our exciting journey and believe you have the qualities we need, we very much look forward to hearing from you.
INFORMATION
Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.
DOWNLOADHow to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- your CV or equivalent biographical information
- a covering letter that sets out your motivation for applying for this appointment, and why you think your knowledge and experience make you suitable
We would be grateful if you would also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.
Recruitment timeline
The closing date for applications is Monday 8th June 2026.
Informal discussions with Starfish Search for selected applicants will take place in w/c 22nd and 29th June 2026.
Agreement of the final shortlist will be by the second week in July 2026.
Formal interviews for shortlisted candidates are likely to take place in mid July or early September. Some posts will require an immediate start; three will begin in March 2027.
Apply