Council Members

The University of Birmingham is a comprehensive research-intensive institution, ranked in the top 100 universities globally, and home to a diverse community of over 42,000 students from 150 countries and more than 10,000 staff. A £1bn organisation, our heritage as Britain’s first civic university combines with our ambitious Birmingham 2030 Strategy to continue our transformation and become a global top 50 institution. Over 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent; our five research themes focus on a thriving planet, life-changing technologies, connecting cultures, global health and a fairer world. We are bolstering our academic quality even further with the recruitment of outstanding new Anniversary Chairs and Fellows. We are the most targeted UK university by graduate employers. Our 2045 Campus Vision sets out an exciting masterplan for the long-term development of the University’s estate, in support of our research and education.

The University’s governing body, our Council, now seeks to add new external members to support the University’s aspiration to become a top 50 global institution. This is a genuinely challenging aim, which will require a vibrant, intellectually exciting and diverse University community, and Council Members will play a crucial role in achieving this goal.

Candidates will have successfully operated in a senior leadership role in a large and complex company, charity or public sector organisation. Individuals will ideally have a connection to the city of Birmingham, the West Midlands region or the University but more importantly, they will have the time to commit to the role.

The University of Birmingham is keen to receive applications from a broad range of individuals and to consider various professional backgrounds – including but not limited to finance, technology, higher education and estates - for the roles. We encourage applications from those who may be less familiar with Higher Education, but who would offer the requisite skills and experience to contribute broadly to the Council and bring enthusiasm for the University's vision and values.

For further details, including the job description, person specification, and information on how to apply, please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies quoting reference number 8206. Candidates wishing to apply should submit a CV (including comprehensive details of key achievements and responsibilities) along with a covering letter which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the role description and person specification.

The closing date for applications is 11:59pm on 22nd February 2026.