We continue our monthly look at the work of the leadership team and the discussions they have on the University Executive Board (UEB).

The 10-Year Plan

The executive leadership for the University continued to discuss the 10-Year Plan throughout the summer and autumn months, focusing on the robustness of proposals. The outline plan was presented to all staff and students at a series of addresses by the President and Vice-Chancellor throughout November. The V-C’s presentation is now available on the Strategy Sharepoint site.

Education, research and enterprise promotions review

In 2014, the University adopted the current promotion policy – one of the key outputs of the Reward Project, which forms part of the University’s framework agreement.

Following a review of the 2015/16 process, and in discussion with the President and Vice-Chancellor and vice-presidents, a number of minor enhancements were approved by UEB. In other words, level seven interviews have moved from a University panel of VPs and deans to a faculty panel, chaired by one VP. This is now the same as the process for level six promotions.

UEB also endorsed the continuation of moderation at Academic Promotions Advisory Group (APAG) for level six and seven promotions to ensure consistency across the University. APAG moderate the promotion decisions made by the faculty, and make a recommendation to the Senate to promote or not. The Group is made up of the President and Vice-Chancellor as chair, three VPs and two Senate members.

Long service awards

The UEB has approved a new approach to long service awards, which are currently optional and only awarded on departure. Formalised long service awards will now be introduced for all employees at their 20- and 30-year anniversary. An engraved fruit bowl will be awarded for 20 years’ service and a clock for 30 years’ service.

Financial budget

Each year, the University refreshes its financial budget to take into account actual student recruitment. This ensures spend is aligned to revenue generated. The budget adjustment will be presented to Council for approval at its November meeting using a snapshot of our student population as at 10 October.

What is the UEB?

The UEB sets the strategic direction and has oversight of how the University is managed. It brings together the President and Vice-Chancellor, Chief Operating Officer, deans, vice-presidents and the directors of Human Resources and Finance.

The Board meets formally once a month for briefings, updates and decision-making. It also meets informally every week to address emerging topics and formulate policy on a wide range of subjects, which are taken forward to the formal monthly meetings for approval.