Introduction to Governance
'Governance' is a general and wide-ranging term which refers to the systems, structures, procedures and rules by which the University takes key decisions on its affairs. It also covers the formal ways in which it records those decisions, tells other people that the decisions have been taken, and is held accountable for them. A fundamental principle of good governance is that the process does not allow itself to become involved with operational matters or decisions relating to the day-to-day management of the University.
Examples of some of the key decisions and procedures that fall within the above definition of governance include:
- determining the University's strategic aims and objectives
- monitoring and measuring the University's performance against these objectives
- setting the University's annual budget and long-term financial forecasts
- ensuring accountability and effective scrutiny of the University's affairs; and
- appointing and ensuring the effectiveness of the head of the institution.
This Governance site provides key information on the main features of the University's governance framework.