Independent Member of Council

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is one of the world’s leading public health universities. Our mission is to improve health and health equity in the UK and worldwide; working in partnership to achieve excellence in public and global health research, education and translation of knowledge into policy and practice. We are committed to helping create a more healthy, sustainable and equitable world for everyone, because we believe our shared future.  

LSHTM was established in 1899 and is incorporated under a Royal Charter granted in 1924. The Charter establishes its Council as the “supreme governing body” of LSHTM. Council is responsible for the strategic direction of LSHTM and approves major developments and receives regular reports from Executive Officers on the operations of its business, in accordance with the Financial Memorandum between LSHTM and the Office for Students (OfS).

Council is also responsible for its governance, control and supervision in accordance with the LSHTM’s Charter and relevant external regulations. These external requirements are set out in the Financial Memorandum between LSHTM and the OfS. The Council comprises a majority of lay members, as well as staff members and a student member. The roles of Chair and Deputy Chair of the Council are separated from the role of LSHTM’s Chief Executive, the Director.

Council has two vacancies for the role of independent member of Council. LSHTM has identified a number of areas where relevant expertise from any new Council members would be welcomed:

• Finance, Accounting and Investment Management
• Business, Enterprise, SMEs and start-ups
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Digital

Amongst the desirable attributes sought from members of Council and its Committees are:

• A strong personal commitment to the mission and objectives of LSHTM;
• Collaborative skills and the ability to work as a member of a team, including with other Council and Committee members, students and academic and professional services staff;
• Tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively;
• Ability to contribute to constructive and rigorous challenge;
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of LSHTM;
• A demonstrable commitment to equity and diversity.

Time Commitment

The nature of the role requires a commitment of time to prepare, attend and actively participate in Council and Committee meetings. Council meets four times a year and its Committees meet between three and six times a year depending on the Committee.

Remuneration

This is a non-remunerated role that does not attract a salary or honorarium. Independent members of Council and Committees will be able to claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred in the course of LSHTM business.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send an expression of interest (CV and cover letter) to nominations@lshtm.ac.uk by 30 July 2026. Potential candidates are welcome to contact Louise Nadal (University Secretary) for an informal discussion via Louise.Nadal@lshtm.ac.uk.  Please refer to the brochure linked below for futher details.  

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