The Roles of Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor at the University of Gloucestershire

Role description

The Chancellor is the honorary Head of the University and represents the University from time to time in a ceremonial and ambassadorial capacity. The Office of Pro-Chancellor is a similar role and empowers the holder of the post to act in the absence of the Chancellor, or to undertake duties in their name.

The Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor(s) act as advocates for the University, helping to raise the University’s profile and advance its interests regionally, nationally, and internationally

The Council may appoint a Chancellor and one or more Pro-Chancellors for a term of up to five years, which may be extended for a second term.

In ways as agreed between the Chancellor and Pro-Chancellors and the University, the roles comprise:

• a general high-level ambassadorial function to promote the University of Gloucestershire and its achievements, regionally, nationally, and internationally;
• presiding and presenting awards at degree ceremonies of the University, which are normally held in Cheltenham over four days in November each year;
• attending or hosting high-profile events arranged by the University from time to time in the course of its engagement with key external stakeholders, including those relating to fundraising;
• identifying high-profile individuals that might be invited to engage with the University;
• being a ‘critical friend’ to the University.

A Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor who wishes to become engaged more closely would be welcome, but it is recognised that an individual with the standing that the University is seeking as Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor is likely to have limited time.

The Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor(s) shall wear the appropriate Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor robes of the University at Awards Ceremonies and such other events as is deemed appropriate.

Person specification

The University is committed to equality and diversity and wishes to encourage nominations of candidates from all walks of life, with a broad range of skills, experience, and backgrounds.

The Chancellor and Pro-Chancellors must:

• have an enthusiasm for the role as described in this statement and a willingness and ability to commit the necessary time and energy to it;
• share the University’s values, vision, goals, and ambitions and have an affinity for its work;
• recognise and celebrate the importance of higher education;
• have a strong personal commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion;
• be a highly respected individual, with a positive public profile that resonates with students, staff, and alumni;
• have demonstrated excellence in their professional lives;
• have strong public speaking skills, capable of inspiring a diverse range of audiences.

In addition, it is also desirable that the Chancellor has a global profile and connections.

Approved by Council on 5 October 2021