Publication Scheme
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Source: www.glos.ac.uk. All Rights Reserved. 2026 University of Gloucestershire
Policy date: Council Approved 28 April 2026
1.1. The purpose of this document is to identify the responsibilities and delegated authorities for making key decisions in the name of, or on behalf of, University of Gloucestershire.
1.2. The Scheme of Delegation sets out those decisions taken by, or delegated from, University of Gloucestershire’s Council and committees. These responsibilities are in accordance with charity law and the principles set out in the Articles of Association and published policies of University of Gloucestershire. The Scheme of Delegation is to be read alongside these documents and is not meant to replace them.
1.3. The Council is responsible for the overall strategic direction of University of Gloucestershire and, whilst no such Scheme of Delegation can be absolutely comprehensive, the intention of this Scheme of Delegation is to provide clarity on the decision-making process and final authorities in relation to key strategic and policy matters. The Scheme of Delegation also forms a frame of reference through which questions about other types of decision may be resolved.
1.4. This Scheme of Delegation came into force on 28 April 2026 and is subject to review by the full Board of Council on an annual basis.
1.5. The University of Gloucestershire has adopted the Higher Education Code of Governance produced by the Committee of University Chairs (“the Code”), the most recent version being September 2020. In accordance with the Code, the University will undertake a regular, full and robust review of governance effectiveness, which includes a review of this Scheme of Delegation, with independent input every three (3) years.
1.6. Any queries regarding the Scheme of Delegation should be emailed to [email protected].
2.1. University of Gloucestershire is a private limited company by guarantee (without share capital use) and is registered at Companies House with company number 06023243, incorporated on 8 December 2006.
2.2. University of Gloucestershire is an “exempt charity”, meaning that it is not required to register with, nor is it regulated by, the Charity Commission. Instead, the Office for Students (established by the Higher Education and Research Act 2017) is the independent and principal regulator for higher education in England, including University of Gloucestershire, responsible for monitoring compliance with charity law obligations.
2.3. UoG’s governing document is its Articles of Association (https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/articles-of-association-august-2025/) and its charitable objects are set out in Article 2 as follows:
“The object of the University shall be the advancement of education in the United Kingdom for public benefit including without limitation:-
through its activities and work, to reflect and show both its civic and evangelical Church of England foundations.”
2.4. The powers of University of Gloucestershire are detailed in Article 3 of the Articles of Association.
3.1. As stipulated in Article 13 of the Articles of Association, the affairs of University of Gloucestershire shall be conducted by the Council, which is the governing body of University of Gloucestershire.
3.2. As the governing body of University of Gloucestershire, the Council is responsible for (Article 13 of the Articles of Association):
“the determination of the educational character and mission of University of Gloucestershire and for oversight of its activities;
• the effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of University of Gloucestershire and for safeguarding its assets;
• approving annual estimates of income and expenditure;
• the appointment, assignment, appraisal, grading, suspension, dismissal and determination of the pay and conditions of service of the Vice-Chancellor and the holders of senior posts as may be decided by the Council in accordance with the procedure laid down by the Council;
• setting a framework for the pay and conditions of service of all other Staff;
• the appointment of Auditors; and
• establishing and maintaining machinery for promoting engagement between University of Gloucestershire and industry, commerce, the professions, other universities, other educational establishments, research organisations and local communities.”
3.3. The Council cannot delegate decisions on the following matters, and these will be reserved for decision by the full Board of Council (Articles 14.5 the Articles of Association):
“the determination of the educational character and mission of University of Gloucestershire;
3.4. The Council is able to delegate other matters and powers as detailed in the Article 14 of the Articles of Association:
“The Council may establish committees for any purpose or function, other than those assigned elsewhere in these Articles to the Vice-Chancellor or to the Academic Board, and may delegate powers to such committees or to the Chair of the Council or to the Vice-Chancellor.”
“The Council shall establish a committee or committees to determine or advise on internal and external audit, finance, employment policy and the remuneration of the Vice-Chancellor and members of the Executive Group and the appointment of Members of Council.”
“The Council:-
• may establish a committee or committees for any purpose or function other than those reserved to itself in Article 14.5 or those assigned elsewhere to the Vice-Chancellor or Academic Board;
• shall establish and maintain terms of reference for all such committees; and
• may delegate powers to such committees or to the Chair or to the Vice-Chancellor.”
“The membership of committees shall be open to persons who are not Council Members but not less than one third of any such committee members shall be Council Members.”
3.5. In accordance with the Articles of Association, the Council has established the following committees and the full Terms of Reference for each committee below are available on University of Gloucestershire’s website:
3.5.1. University Executive Committee: https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/university-executive-committee/
3.5.2. Academic Board: https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/academic-board-terms-of-reference/
3.5.3. Audit and Risk Committee: https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/audit-committee-terms-of-reference/
3.5.4 Finance and General Purposes Committee: Finance and General Purposes Committee terms of reference – Knowledge Base – University of Gloucestershire
3.5.5. Remuneration and Human Resources Committee: https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/remuneration-and-human-resources-committee-terms-of-reference/
3.5.6 Governance and Nominations Committee: https://www.glos.ac.uk/information/knowledge-base/governance-and-nominations-committee-terms-of-reference/
3.6. As the Chief Executive and Senior Academic Officer of University of Gloucestershire, the Vice-Chancellor is responsible to the Council,
3.7. In accordance with Article 18.4 of the Articles of Association, the Vice-Chancellor shall have the following powers and duties:-
“Without prejudice to any terms or conditions attached to the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor from time to time pursuant to this Article 18, the Vice-Chancellor shall have the following powers and duties:
4.1. The Scheme of Delegation has been prepared with reference to University of Gloucestershire’s Articles of Association, which constitute the overriding authority should any future contradiction between the Scheme of Delegation and the Articles of Association arise.
4.2. Ultimate accountability and responsibility for any decision or process that has been delegated by Council or any other primary authority is retained by Council.
4.3. Where delegated power exists, it is imperative that the officer or senior manager to whom authority has been delegated ensures that appropriate frameworks and procedures are in place within their area of responsibility before delegating further.
4.4. It is recognised that decisions may need to be made by exception without normal practices in the event of a major incident or crisis. In such circumstances, Council shall delegate authority to the Vice-Chancellor, supported by the Senior Leadership Team and, all such decisions made in the event of a major incident or crisis, must be reported to the subsequent Council meeting.
Pursuant to the University of Gloucestershire’s Articles of Association, the affairs of University of Gloucestershire shall be conducted by the Council, which is the governing body of University of Gloucestershire. The Council delegates the actions, decisions and processes as set out in the Table below.
Ultimate accountability and responsibility for any decision or process that has been delegated by Council or any other primary authority is retained by Council.
| No. | Description/Action | The Delegated Authority | Nature of Delegation and Process It should be stated here whether any other senior bodies/individuals other than those set out in the ‘Delegation’ column are involved in the governance process |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Governance | ||
| 1.1. | The ultimate oversight of the University’s activities to ensure within charitable purposes | – Audit and Risk Committee; – Governance and Nominations Committee; – Remuneration and Human Resources Committee; – Finance and General Purposes Committee – University Executive Committee; – Academic Board | Please see individual terms of reference for each Committee. |
| 1.2. | Amendments to the University’s governing document – the Articles of Association | Retained by Members under Company Law | The Members of the University of Gloucestershire retain ultimate authority regarding any amendments to the University’s Articles of Association in accordance with Company Law and the Articles of Association. Governance and Nominations Committee considers and reviews any proposed amendments and makes recommendations to Council. Council then reviews and makes recommendations to the Members in relation to proposed amendments to the Articles of Association. Members can also bring forward amendments directly. The University is currently a ‘closed company’ meaning the individuals appointed as Council Members (i.e. company directors and charity trustees) are also the only Members (i.e. company members). The role of Council Member and Member are separate and distinct, and have different legal duties and responsibilities. Under Company Law, amendments to Articles of Association must be agreed and approved by Members. |
| 1.3. | Development of and amendments to the Scheme of Delegation | Retained by Council | Significant amendments are reviewed by the relevant Committee for recommendation for approval by the Council. – Audit and Risk Committee; – Governance and Nominations Committee; – Remuneration and Human Resources Committee; – Finance and General Purposes Committee – University Executive Committee; – Academic Board Minor amendments are made by the University Secretary or the Assistant Secretary and noted by the relevant Committee and Council. Minor amendments include, but are not limited to, administrative changes such as updated to reflect revised policies and processes, changes to job titles, changes to committee names etc. |
| 1.4. | Development of and amendments to the Standing Orders | Governance and Nominations Committee | Please refer to Governance and Nominations Committee Terms of Reference |
| 1.5. | Development of and amendments to the Terms of References for relevant sub-committees (set out separately below) | – Audit and Risk Committee; – Governance and Nominations Committee; – Remuneration and Human Resources Committee; – Finance and General Purposes Committee – University Executive Committee; – Academic Board | All committees review and approve any potential amendments to their Terms of Reference on an annual basis, which are then reviewed and approved by Council (however amendments can be made in-year as required). Minor amendments are made by the University Secretary or the Assistant Secretary and noted by the relevant Committee and Council. Minor amendments may include, but are not limited to, administrative changes such as updates to reflect revised policies or processes, changes to job titles, changes to committee names etc. |
| Terms of Reference: Council (which includes statement of primary responsibilities) | Retained by Council | Any in-year amendments are submitted to Secretary to Council as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: University Executive Committee | University Executive Committee | Any in-year amendments are submitted to University Executive Committee as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: University Academic Board | University Academic Board | Any in-year amendments are submitted to University Academic Board as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: The Audit and Risk Committee | The Audit and Risk Committee | Any in-year amendments are submitted to The Audit and Risk Committee as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: The Finance and General Purposes Committee | The Finance and General Purposes Committee | Any in-year amendments are submitted to The Finance and General Purposes Committee as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: The Governance and Nominations Committee | The Governance and Nominations Committee | Any in-year amendments are submitted to The Governance and Nominations Committee as required. | |
| Terms of Reference: The Remuneration and Human Resources Committee | The Remuneration and Human Resources Committee | Any in-year amendments are submitted to The Remuneration and Human Resources Committee as required. | |
| 1.6. | Appointment of Chair and Deputy Chair of the Council | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. The Governance and Nominations Committee can advise Council as to this process. |
| 1.7. | Establishment of committees of the Council | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. The Governance and Nominations Committee can advise Council as to this process. Further, the Governance and Nominations Committee will review the membership of Council’s committees and will recommend to Council the appointment of Council and co-opted members to committees and the appointment of committee chairs. |
| 1.8. | Determination of allowances to be paid to members of the Council | Retained by Council (Members retain authority for any amendments to Articles under under Company Law) | In accordance with the Articles of Association, which prohibit allowances to be paid to Council members. Governance and Nominations Committee have oversight of Council members related party transactions (including expenses). Any changes to allowances would be considered and reviewed by Governance and Nominations Committee with recommendations made to Council for decision. Should any amendments be required to the Articles of Association, Member approval and decision would be required. |
| 1.9. | Approval of the selection or election arrangements and periods of appointment of members of the Academic Board | Academic Board | Please see Terms of Reference for Academic Board. Any changes that require an amendment to the Articles must be agreed and approved as detailed in 1.2 above and ultimately approved by the Company Members. |
| 1.10. | Approval of the selection or election arrangements and periods of appointment of members of the University Executive Committee | University Executive Committee | Please see Terms of Reference for University Executive Committee. |
| 1.11. | To oversee and monitor the implementation of Council induction and training | The Governance and Nominations Committee | The University Secretary or the Assistant Secretary can advise the Governance and Nominations Committee as to this process. |
| 1.12 | Maintenance of the Register of Council Members’ Interests and Related Party Transactions | – Secretary to Council – The Governance and Nominations Committee | An update of the Register of Interests and Related Party Transaction declarations shall be conducted on an annual basis, and the results of which shall be published on the University’s website. It is individual Council members who are responsible for the accuracy of any declarations and for proactively providing any details as a result of changes in their circumstance as necessary and in a timely fashion (both on the annual update and at any meeting). Related Party Transactions are also considered by Auditors as part of the preparation of the University’s financial statements. |
| 1.13. | Ensuring that Council’s business is conducted in accordance with best practice in higher education | Governance and Nominations Committee | The University’s internal Governance Team support and advise on best practice, including but not limited to, taking into account external best practice from the Charity Commission, the Office for Students, the Code etc. |
| 1.14. | Effectiveness reviews of Council and its Committees | Governance and Nominations Committee | Governance Effectiveness Reviews shall be carried out periodically, in accordance with the Code and best practice. The University’s internal Governance Team will also provide support and advice |
| 1.15. | Approval of Students’ Union constitution | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 1.16. | Submission of reportable events to the Office for Students | University Secretary or Assistant Secretary to Council | |
| 1.17. | Use of the University seal, in accordance with agreed procedures | Secretary to Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 1.18. | Identification of matters of ethical concern or any matter or activity that may lead to material adverse reputational risk to the University | University Executive Committee | The University Executive Committee are responsible for the identification of risk in this regard. Where, in the view of the University Executive Committee, there are issues of ethical concern or the potential for material adverse reputational risk, matters shall then be escalated to Council. Where there is uncertainty as to whether a matter should be escalated, The University Executive Committee shall generally escalate if there is a risk of major impact and/ or attempts to resolve the issue have failed. |
| 1.19. | Appraisal of the Vice Chancellor and the Secretary to Council | Chair of Council | The Remuneration and Human Resources Committee also considers the performance of the Vice-Chancellor and provides support and assistance to the Chair of Council. |
| 1.20. | Appointment, suspension and removal of members of Council | Retained by Council | This action shall be dealt with in accordance with the University’s Articles of Association. The Governance and Nominations Committee make recommendations to Council. |
| 1.21. | Appointment, suspension and removal of University Secretary to Council | Retained by Council | This action shall be dealt with in accordance with the University’s Articles of Association. The Governance and Nominations Committee can provide support to the Council, but Council retains decision making authority. |
| 1.22. | Appointment, suspension and removal of members of the Council’s Boards of Committees | Retained by Council | The Governance and Nominations Committee provides support and recommendations to the Council, but Council retains decision making authority. |
| 1.23. | Appointment of a Chancellor | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 2. | Academic Matters | ||
| 2.1. | Advising on the educational character and mission, and the strategic development of the academic work, of the University | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 2.2. | Oversight of the academic work and activities of the University | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 2.3. | Conferral (and withdrawal) of academic awards (other than research degrees) | Academic Board | Award and Progression Panels administer the arrangements for the conferment of University awards. Academic Board retain decision making power |
| 2.4. | Conferral and withdrawal of all research awards | Academic Board | Award and Progression Panels (Postgraduate Research) administer the arrangements for the conferment of University awards. Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 2.5. | Approval of academic regulations | Academic Board | Academic Affairs Committee have oversight of, and can agree minor changes to the University’s academic regulations and frameworks (including assessment) for taught provision. |
| 2.6. | Academic appeals process/ procedure | Academic Board | Please see the University’s academic appeals procedure. |
| 2.7. | Oversight of research compliance and ethics, including responsibility for the development and application of policies and strategies relating to research | – Academic Board – Research Committee (as detailed in next column) | The Academic Board sets standards and ensures that the University meets its obligations to comply with the statutory, regulatory and policy requirements in relation to research. The Research Committee maintains oversight of research ethics through the Research Ethics Committee. The Research Committee also develops, implements and guides the delivery of Research Strategy. Academic Board retains decision making power for matters including course closures, course titles, validation etc. |
| 2.8. | Responsibility for policies and processes regarding the quality and standards of academic provision as set out in Academic Board’s Terms of Reference | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. Major strategic developments will be subject to Council approval. |
| 2.9. | Partnerships for Collaboration in Educational Provision: Educational Element | – Academic Board – University Executive Committee | Academic Board and University Executive Committee review and make recommendations for any changes required from an educational perspective. |
| Partnerships for Collaboration in Educational Provision: Entering into the Agreement | – University Executive Committee – Partnerships Board | The University may enter into Agreements with external organisations for the provision of educational services which are consistent with the Objects of the University. University Executive Committee review and make recommendations for any changes required from a commercial/ operational perspective following Academic Board’s input. | |
| Oversight of the academic partner strategy | – Council – University Executive Committee | ||
| 2.10. | To consult with the Vice-Chancellor on the suspension or closure of provision | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 2.11. | Safeguarding and enhancing academic standards through effective quality assurance processes. | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. The Academic Affairs Committee provides support to the Academic Board. |
| 2.12. | Responses to external bodies relating to the academic work of the University | – Academic Board – University Executive Committee | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 2.13. | Providing assurance to Council on all academic matters, including those listed above, to enable the Council to make the annual assurance statement on academic matters as part of the Annual Accountability Return | Academic Board | The Vice-Chancellor can make recommendations to the Academic Board but Academic Board retain decision making power. |
| 3.0 | Student Matters | ||
| 3.1. | Approval of the rules with respect to the conduct of students | University Executive Committee | |
| 3.2. | Student Complaints procedure – operation and changes | – Academic Board – University Executive Committee | The Academic Board is responsible, under its Terms of Reference, for the academic experience of students, including student support and guidance; and appeals and complaints. Where any complaint includes non-academic related issues, these are reviewed and considered by University Executive Committee. To confirm, the Vice-Chancellor has delegated these responsibilities pursuant to Article 18.5. |
| Student Complaints – Group Actions | Retained by Council | Group action claims with high risk of reputational damage or financial consequences. | |
| 3.3. | Student disciplinary procedures – conduct and discipline of students and authority for disciplinary action | – University Executive Committee – The Vice-Chancellor | The University Executive Committee and the Vice-Chancellor are responsible for the conduct, discipline, expulsion, exclusion and suspension of the University’s students. It is responsible for the operation and review of all matters relating to student conduct and discipline. The University Executive Committee and the Vice-Chancellor have the power to expel, exclude or suspend students from programmes of study or to impose a fine or other lesser penalty upon any student found guilty of misconduct or breach of discipline. The University Executive Committee and the Vice-Chancellor are empowered to arrange and take part in Disciplinary Panels to consider allegations of misconduct made against students. The Vice-Chancellor may delegate any or all of their powers, except where the Articles of Association or the Regulations of the Council prohibit such delegation. |
| 3.4. | The procedure for the termination of enrolment of students for academic reasons | Academic Board | Academic Board agrees the procedure for the termination of enrolment of students for academic reasons. |
| The actual termination of enrolment of students for academic reasons | Vice Chancellor, COO | ||
| 3.5. | Student Terms and Conditions | University Executive Committee | Student Terms and conditions are reviewed periodically by University Executive Committee, including to reflect any changes in legal and regulatory requirements and best practice. Significant amendments are approved by University Executive Committee and noted by Council. Minor amendments are made by the Chief Operating Officer and noted by the University Executive Committee and Council. Minor amendments may include (but are not limited to) administrative changes such as, updates to reflect revised policies and/ or processes, changes to job titles and/ or committee names etc. Legal advice (whether internal or external) can be obtained by Council or the University Executive Committee on any proposed changes to Student Terms and Conditions. |
| 3.6. | Student welfare, including the promotion of opportunity, inclusivity and diversity for students | University Executive Committee The Vice-Chancellor | University Executive Committee and the Vice-Chancellor will ensure appropriate consultation with Council in respect of student welfare matters. Individual cases are dealt with student services and/ or the relevant senior staff member. Advice may be sought from student services and/ or the relevant senior staff member where appropriate. |
| 3.7. | To maintain and protect the principles of academic freedom and freedom of speech legislation | – University Executive Committee – Academic Board – Retained by Council | University Executive Committee will ensure the protection for free speech and academic freedom in accordance with the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 as amended from time to time. Any recommendations to policies and procedures in this regard shall be for the approval of Council. |
| 3.8. | Establishment of procedures to ensure that students have the fullest opportunity to raise matters of proper concern to them at all levels in the University as maybe deemed appropriate by Council | University Executive Committee | |
| 4. | Student Finance | ||
| 4.1. | Setting a framework for tuition fees and other fees payable to the University | Retained by Council | All tuition fees and other fees will be set in accordance with any statutory or regulatory requirements. |
| 4.2. | Responsibility for non-regulated tuition fees | University Executive Committee | |
| 4.3. | Responsibility for regulated tuition fees | Retained by Council | |
| 4.4. | Approval of home student scholarships, bursaries and discounts | University Executive Committee | |
| 4.5. | Approval of international scholarships, bursaries and discounts | University Executive Committee | |
| 4.6. | Determining student residence fees | University Executive Committee | |
| 5. | University Financial Matters and Budget | ||
| 5.1. | Approval of Financial Policy and Regulations | Finance & General Purposes Committee | The process will be supported by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.2. | Approval of the University’s Financial Plan (i.e. the annual budget) and 5-year forecasts | Retained by Council | The Finance & General Purposes Committee will make recommendations to the Council and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. The Council will give ultimate approval. |
| 5.3. | Determination of detailed budgets and financial forecasts within overall approved framework of the University’s Financial Plan | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be supported by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.4. | Ensuring the University maintains robust systems of internal financial control and accountability, including risk management | – Finance & General Purposes Committee – Audit & Risk Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer and the Finance & General Purposes Committee and Audit & Risk Committee may seek assurance from other committees in fulfilling its responsibilities in respect of this action. |
| 5.5. | Monitoring of the University’s overall financial position within the parameters of the University’s Financial Plan (i.e. the annual budget and 5-year forecasts) | Retained by Council | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer and the Finance & General Purposes Committee may seek assurance from other committees in fulfilling its responsibilities in respect of this action. The Finance & General Purposes Committee will make recommendations to Council. |
| 5.6 | Ensuring the effective and efficient use of resources, value for money arrangements, the solvency of the University and for safeguarding the assets | – Audit and Risk Committee – Finance & General Purposes Committee | Finance & General Purposes Committee involved in relation to the solvency of the University and for safeguarding the assets of the University. |
| 5.7. | Approval of the Office for Students’ Transparent Approach to Costing (TRAC) return | Finance & General Purposes Committee | The Finance & General Purposes Committee is responsible for ensuring that the TRAC process used by the University to produce the TRAC return complies with the TRAC requirements. The TRAC return is subsequently signed off by Finance & General Purposes Committee. |
| 5.8. | Ensuring compliance with the Office for Students’ Financial requirements and obligations | – Finance & General Purposes Committee – Audit & Risk Committee | The Finance & General Purposes Committee is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Office for Students’ Financial requirements and obligations. Audit & Risk Committee are responsible for reportable events. |
| 5.9. | To consider and approve the Students’ Union’s financial statements | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 5.10. | Agreement of Treasury Management Policy | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.11. | Agreement of Finance Strategy | Retained by Council | The Finance & General Purposes Committee will make a recommendation to the Council and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.12. | Responsibility for the development and application of an Investment Policy | Finance & General Purposes Committee | The Finance & General Purposes Committee will make a recommendation to the Council and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.13. | Appointment of investment managers | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.14. | Management of endowments and other investments | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.15. | Responsibility for the development and application of policies and strategies relating to commercial activities | University Executive Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.16. | Responsibility for approval, ownership, and review of the tax strategy | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.17. | Financial allocations to schools / departments | University Executive Committee | |
| 5.18. | Appointment of the University’s insurers | Finance & General Purposes Committee | The University Executive Committee will make a recommendation to the F&GPC and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.19. | Ensuring insurance of premises, assets of the University | University Executive Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.20. | The establishment, monitoring and closure of subsidiary companies, and the arrangements for their constitution, including oversight of their financial results and the impact on the University. | Retained by Council | The Finance & General Purposes Committee will make a recommendation to the Council and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer |
| 5.21. | Responsibility for the development, operation and application, including minor changes, of the Health & Safety Policy | – Council – University Executive Committee | Significant amendments are reviewed by University Executive Committee for recommendation for approval by the Council. Minor amendments are made by University Executive Committee and noted by the Health and Safety Committee and Council. Minor amendments may include (but are not limited to) administrative changes such as, updates to reflect revised policies and/ or processes, changes to job titles and/ or committee names etc. |
| 5.22. | Appointment of the University’s bankers | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer |
| 5.23. | Approval for the opening or closing of bank accounts | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer |
| 5.24. | Approval of bank signatories | Finance & General Purposes Committee | This process will be led by Chief Financial Officer |
| 5.25. | Acceptance of major financial donations, endowments and tangible assets | University Executive Committee Financial Controller | University Executive Committee will make decisions with due regard to the Ethics Policy. Decisions on Minor donations will made by the University Financial Controller . |
| 5.26. | Approval of new arrangements with private student accommodation providers | Finance & General Purposes Committee | The process will be led by the Chief Financial Officer. |
| 5.27. | The approval of the annual estimates of income and expenditure and the approval of the annual financial statements | Retained by Council | The Finance & General Purposes Committee shall consider and make recommendations to Council for its approval and this process will be led by Chief Financial Officer. |
| 6. | HR and Staffing Matters | ||
| 6.1. | Setting a framework for the pay and conditions of services of all members of staff (other than Senior Staff) | Retained by Council The Vice-Chancellor – certain powers under Articles | In accordance with the Articles of Association. The Remuneration & Human Resources Committee provides support and advice to Council in relation to setting a framework for the pay and conditions of service of staff. The Council retains decision making powers. The Vice-Chancellor has the powers and duties under Article 18.4.3 for the appointment, assignment, grading, appraisal, suspension and determination – within the framework set by the Council – of the pay and conditions of service of staff other than Senior Staff. |
| 6.2. | Framework for pay, conditions and performance monitoring of Senior Staff | Remuneration & Human Resources Committee | The Remuneration & Human Resources Committee has delegated authority from Council to approve the remuneration, terms and conditions of employment and all other benefits of all Senior Staff (with the exception of the Vice-Chancellor) in accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 6.3. | The appointment, assignment, appraisal, grading, suspension, dismissal and determination of the pay and conditions of service of the Vice-Chancellor | Retained by Council | In accordance with the Articles of Association. The Remuneration & Human Resources Committee may make recommendations to Council for severance payment terms for the Vice-Chancellor taking account of Office for Students’ guidance. |
| 6.4. | Appointment, suspension and dismissal of: – The Vice-Chancellor – Senior Staff | Retained by Council In relation to suspension only: – The Chair – The Vice-Chair | In accordance with the Articles of Association. Governance and Nominations Committee consider and make recommendations to Council, Council retain decision making power. |
| 6.5. | Appeal by the Vice-Chancellor | Remuneration & Human Resources Committee | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 6.6. | Appeal by a Senior Staff member | Remuneration & Human Resources Committee | In accordance with the Articles of Association. |
| 6.7. | The health and safety of members of staff, students and other persons on the University’s premises or where a duty of care exists | – The Vice-Chancellor (implementation of arrangements) | Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the legal duty holder is the University as the employer. Council has delegated the implementation of agreed arrangements to the Vice-Chancellor. |
| 6.8. | Participation in Pension Funds Management of the University’s responsibilities and obligations in respect of pension schemes | Retained by Council | The following committees will advise the Council: – Finance & General Purposes Committee in relation to cost of maintaining pension fund – Remuneration & Human Resources Committee in relation to the employee aspect Council has the final authority in respect of University of Gloucestershire’s responsibilities and obligations in respect of pension schemes. |
| 7. | Audit and Compliance | ||
| 7.1. | Report to Council on the adequacy and effectiveness of the University’s arrangements for: – Risk management, control and governance; – Economy, efficiency and effectiveness; – Management and quality assurance of data submitted to HESA, and to other funding bodies; and – The investigation of any activity within its terms of reference. | Audit & Risk Committee | Representations and recommendations from Internal Audit and Executive Team are made to Audit & Risk Committee. |
| 7.2. | Approval of the nature and scope of the external audit, appointment and removal of external auditors | Retained by Council | The Audit & Risk Committee are responsible for the process to appoint an external Auditor or Auditors and the Audit & Risk Committee will make a recommendation for the appointment of an external Auditor or Auditors to the Council. The Audit & Risk Committee will consider and advise Council on the appointment and terms of engagement of the internal audit service, the audit fee, and the provision of any non-audit services by the internal auditors. The approval of an external Auditor’s appointment is reserved for Council in accordance with University of Gloucestershire’s Article 13.1.6. The approval of the removal of an external Auditor or Auditors is a right reserved for the Members under Company Law and so it shall be a Members decision to remove an external Auditor or Auditors. |
| 7.3. | Approval of the internal audit needs, assessment and audit plan, and appointment and removal of internal auditors | Retained by Council | The Audit & Risk Committee are responsible for the process to appoint an internal Auditor or Auditors and the Audit & Risk Committee will make a recommendation for the appointment of an internal Auditor or Auditors to the Council. The approval of an internal Auditor’s appointment or removal shall be reserved for Council. |
| 7.4. | Strategic oversight of anti-fraud and anti-money laundering policies | Audit & Risk Committee | Chief Financial Officer supports Audit & Risk Committee |
| 7.5. | The appointment of the University’s legal advisors | Vice-Chancellor | The Council has delegated this specific power to the Vice-Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor may delegate any or all of these powers, except where the Articles or the Regulations of the Council prohibit such delegation. |
| 8. | Agreement and contract execution | ||
| 8.1. | Execution process for agreements and contracts | Depends on nature of agreement/contract – see section 10 below for more details | Agreements and contracts, once they have gone through the financial approval process, shall be executed/ signed in accordance with Company Law and the Articles of Association (including by way of seal). |
| 9. | Media / PR matters | ||
| 9.1. | Authorisation of media releases | Chief Marketing Officer | Approval from Council or the Vice-Chancellor may be appropriate, depending on the context of the media release. |
| 9.2. | Approval of the use of the University logo or brand | Chief Marketing Officer | Approval from Council or the Vice-Chancellor may be appropriate, depending on the context of the media release. |
Section 10: Financial Delegation and Authority Levels
Senior staff should ensure they do not act alone on high value decisions during their notice periods. For the avoidance of doubt, any delegated financial authority granted under this Scheme shall be withdrawn with immediate effect where an individual is suspended or on paid leave during a notice period.
| Transaction Type/Authority Levels – after co-pilot review | **** £0 – £10,000 | £10,001 – £50,000 | £50,001 – £150,000 | £150,000 – £500,000 | £500,001 – £3,000,000 | Above £3,000,000 |
| -New Capital Expenditure & -New unbudgeted revenue spend -Student claims | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School | UEC Members | CFO or COO | VC | F & GP | Council |
| Capital Expenditure – approved & budgeted projects* | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School | Head of School/Prof Dept Dir + FBP | UEC members | CFO, COO | VC | F & GP |
| Budgeted revenue spend* | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School | Head of School/Prof Dept Dir | UEC members | CFO or COO | VC | UEC |
| Procurement from Non-approved supplier** | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School | UEC member + CFO waiver if over £30k | CFO or COO | VC | F &GP | Council |
| Transaction Type/Authority Levels – after co-pilot review | **** £0 – £10,000 | £10,001 – £50,000 | £50,001 – £150,000 | £150,000 – £500,000 | £500,001 – £3,000,000 | Above £3,000,000 |
| Capital bids and Research & Commercial income generating contracts (including PIMS) | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School +FBP | Head of School/Prof Dept Dir + Dir of Research | Dir of Research | VC | VC with CFO review | F&GP (reporting to Council where required) |
| Payroll – one-off Redundancy/Settlements/ Ill health retirements etc | CFO/People Dir | CFO/People Dir | CFO/People Dir | VC | RHRC | Council |
| Bad Debt Write-offs | Financial Controller | CFO | CFO | VC | F &GP | Council |
| Leases & Property Commitments*** | Dir of C&T | Dir of C&T | CFO | VC | F &GP | Council |
| Asset disposal | Head of Dept/Deputy Head of School +FBP | UEC member | CFO or COO | VC | F & GP | Council |
*Complies with UoG procurement policy; approval to spend and contract award sign-off will be at the same level of authorisation under the Scheme of Delegation. Suppliers will be ‘approved’ if they have been appointed through a formal procurement process
** Unapproved suppliers will not have been appointed through a formal procurement process and should be subject to waiver if above £30k (the threshold above which public contracts should be published).
*** Any interest on property up to £30k will require review by the Director of Commercial & Transformation and between £30k and £250k also by the CFO, approval of leases in excess of 5 years with an annual value in excess of £250k and up to £500k go to F& GP. Deeds of any value will require sign-off by a Council member and Company Secretary
**** The University Executive Committee may approve lower levels of delegated authority for financial levels below £10k. Any such approvals will be maintained by the Procurement & Commercial team.
Point to note
The proposed structure above has been through a Co-pilot review with the following brief
‘To rationalise the complex authority levels in the organisation that have developed piecemeal until now. Rationalise the attached Scheme of Delegation Table to reduce the number of Authority levels by value band by at least 50% and to assign appropriate Authority to approve levels by Transaction type. Produce a Table that is clear and easy to read and understand.’