Co-opted Non-executive Member - Infrastructure Planning Committee

University of Bristol – Prestigious Governance Opportunity

Are you a senior leader in digital transformation or infrastructure management who wants to shape the future of a leading university? The University of Bristol seeks a senior professional to join its Infrastructure Planning Committee (IPC) as a co‑opted non‑executive member - helping plan, prioritise, and deliver the University’s property and digital infrastructure.

About the University
Founded in 1876, Bristol is a top‑10 UK university and ranked 51st globally (QS 2026). Renowned for academic excellence, pioneering research, and social commitment, it was the first UK university to admit men and women on an equal basis. Bristol leads in climate action, health, human rights, and digital innovation—home to the Bristol Digital Futures Institute, QET Labs for quantum technologies, and Isambard AI, the UK’s most powerful AI supercomputer, accelerating breakthroughs in machine learning, drug discovery, and climate modelling. With a £1.1bn annual budget and 8,800+ staff, the University has major civic impact.

Governance
The Board of Trustees, chaired by Jack Boyer OBE, provides strategic leadership, supported by seven specialist committees. Each is chaired by an Independent Trustee and supported by the University Secretary & Director of Governance and a professional team.

About the IPC
The IPC provides independent assurance on long-term planning, development, and performance of Bristol’s physical and digital estate—reviewing strategic frameworks and major infrastructure and digital programmes to ensure alignment with mission and strategy.

What you’ll do

• Provide independent oversight of major infrastructure and digital programmes.
• Challenge business cases, monitor portfolio performance, and ensure strategic alignment.
• Advise on digital strategy, student experience, research enablement, and enterprise systems.
• Provide evidence‑based guidance on risk, investment, and operational readiness.

Who we’re looking for

• Senior leaders experienced in digital transformation, technology, or infrastructure in complex organisations.
• Expertise in programme governance, risk management, and business‑case scrutiny.
• Strategic, independent thinkers with sound judgement and excellent communication.
• Commitment to higher education and University values.

Time commitment, term & remuneration

• IPC meetings: Thu 23 Apr 2026 (10:00); Thu 18 Jun 2026 (10:00); Thu 15 Oct 2026 (10:00); Thu 22 Apr 2027 (10:00); Fri 25 Jun 2027 (10:00).
• Term: Up to three years, with potential reappointment for a further three.
• Remuneration: Non‑remunerated; reasonable expenses reimbursed.
• Induction & training provided.

Why join
Influence high‑impact decisions across estates and digital; collaborate with senior leaders; and contribute to two landmark projects:

• Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus (opening Autumn 2026): £500m, seven‑acre site beside Temple Meads.
• Mumbai Enterprise Campus (opening Summer 2026): the University’s first international campus with Indian partners.

How to apply
Submit your CV and a covering letter (max 2 pages) addressing the criteria.

Informal enquiries: Michael Flay, Director of Governance & University Secretary — Michael.Flay@bristol.ac.uk.

Interviews: Tuesday, 10 March. 

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