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

10-Year Plan Board – governance structure

The UEB agreed the process for overseeing the implementation of the 10-Year Plan. A key element of this is the 10-Year Plan Board, which will meet on a monthly basis to approve any business cases for initiatives or funding needs relating to the Plan. The members of this board are the same as the UEB, with the inclusion of several key Directors: Kevin Monaghan, Estates and Facilities; Shaun Williams, Engagement and Advancement; Professor Simon Cox, Information and Technology and Jane Savidge, Student Experience.

The process also sets out clear criteria that differentiates between 10-Year Plan initiatives and business as usual, defines the flow of approval for business cases and outlines the priorities for the first year.

The UEB is confident that it has a process that allows flexibility, accountability and transparency while working towards the University’s strategy. A more in-depth feature on the governance of the 10-Year plan can be found in this edition of Connects.

Implementation of a new Health and Safety Structure.

In December the UEB agreed that Cathy Day, Director of Health, Safety and Risk, would look at how Health and Safety (H&S) could be delivered in a more consistent manner. Historically, H&S has been delivered on a localised level, so each directorate or faculty has been managing its H&S in a slightly different way.

In April, the UEB approved a new structure for the management of H&S. The line management for H&S officers will move from the directorate or faculty to the central H&S team. These proposed changes will not affect the day-to-day work of the officers, but will now allow for a more consistent process of managing of H&S across the University. The new management structure will ensure that we are compliant with all H&S regulations.

Support for European colleagues

The UEB was asked to approve the reimbursing of EEA (European Economic Area) and Swiss National employees for the costs incurred when applying for permanent residency or for their registration certificates. The UEB is keen to support University staff following Brexit and the subsequent uncertainties around free movement, and endorsed the proposal enthusiastically. The financial assistance will only be available for University staff and will not include their families. More details can be found in the recent blog update by Professor Colin Grant, Vice-President (International). More information can be found on the HR website.

Level 1 -3 Appraisal and Career Pathways

At the beginning of the year, a working party of Level 1–3 staff members provided feedback on Level 1–3 staff appraisals and Career Pathways for those in the Management, Specialist and Administrative (MSA), Technical and Experimental (TAE) and Community and Operational (CAO) job families.

The agreed principles are closely aligned to the Level 4–7 staff process, with some key points of difference. A paper-based form will be available for those who do not have access to a PC, and where appropriate a shortened version of the appraisal can be used. The Career Pathways will be refreshed and improved to support career development and progression and include Our Southampton Behaviours.

Appraisal is an opportunity to meet with your line manager to discuss previous performance, set future objectives and consider any personal development needs. The process will include a descriptive rating scale and a moderation process to ensure fairness and equity.

These principles were presented and endorsed by the UEB at the May meeting. The transition to the new process will start in January 2018, with appraisals coming online in January 2019. In recognition of the importance of appraisal training, this will be provided to all staff: line managers and employees. The design and format is currently under review and will be announced towards the end of 2017.

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 Executive Directors of Human Resources and Strategy, and Finance and Planning

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.