S1 Ep6: Episode 6: Governance, Governance, Governance

University Registrars Talking About Stuff

This is the sixth in the series of podcasts featuring two university Registrars talking about higher ed stuff. In this episode Dave Hall of the Open University and Dr Paul Greatrix of the University of Nottingham talk about the different elements of the highest level of university governance. Goings on at the governing body are largely unseen by many within universities and there is a real need to ensure governing body members understand the university better and are more visible to staff. The importance of drawing the line between governance and management as well as getting the core elements of business operations right are explored along with the need for the involvement of students and staff in the big decisions. Unsurprisingly perhaps the vital role of the Registrar as secretary to the governing body is emphasised as is the need for them to support both the chair and Vice-Chancellor in ensuring effective governance. There’s also plenty of discussion about the role of the VC and a defining governance moment in the history of the University of Nottingham.