Co-opted Non-executive Member - Infrastructure Planning Committee

University of Bristol; Bristol; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned UK university seeks a Co-opted Non-executive Member for its Infrastructure Planning Committee. This vital role involves providing independent oversight on major infrastructure initiatives and advising on digital strategy to shape university priorities. Ideal candidates will be senior leaders with experience in digital transformation and risk management. The position is non-remunerated but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Join as a trusted advisor to influence impactful projects that advance the university's mission and values.

Benefits

Reasonable expenses reimbursed

Induction & training provided

Qualifications

• Senior leader experience in complex organisations.
• Expertise in digital transformation and technology.
• Strategic thinker with sound judgement.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight of infrastructure programmes.
• Advise on digital strategy and student experience.
• Support the Board with evidence-based guidance.

Skills

Digital transformation

Infrastructure management

Programme governance

Risk management

Excellent communication skills

Job description

Co-opted Non-executive Member - Infrastructure Planning Committee

Prestigious Governance Opportunity at the University of Bristol

Are you a senior leader with experience in digital transformation and infrastructure management? Do you want to help shape the future of a leading university? The University of Bristol is seeking a senior professional to join its Infrastructure Planning Committee (IPC) as a co‑opted non‑executive member. This is a unique opportunity to influence how the University plans, prioritises, and delivers its property and digital infrastructure.

About the University

Founded in 1876, the University of Bristol is a top 10 UK university and ranked 51st globally (QS 2026). Known for its academic excellence, pioneering research, and social commitment, Bristol was the first UK university to admit men and women on an equal basis. Today, it leads in climate action, health, human rights and digital innovation – from the Bristol Digital Futures Institute’s sociotechnical research, to hosting Isambard‑AI, the UK’s most powerful AI supercomputer, and advancing quantum technologies at QET Labs.

At the heart of this research strength is Isambard AI, a flagship national initiative designed to accelerate breakthroughs in machine learning, drug discovery, and climate modelling, positioning the University at the forefront of responsible AI and technological advancement.

With a £1.1 billion annual budget and more than 8,800 staff, the University plays a vital role in Bristol’s economic, social, and cultural life.

Governance and Committees

The University’s Board of Trustees, chaired by Jack Boyer OBE, provides strategic leadership and ensures effective governance. Supporting the Board are seven specialist committees, including IPC which play a key role in maintaining transparency, accountability, and long‑term success. Each committee is chaired by an Independent Trustee and supported by the University Secretary & Director of Governance and a dedicated professional team.

About the Committee (IPC)

The Infrastructure Planning Committee (IPC) is a key committee of the Board of Trustees. Its role is to provide independent assurance on the long‑term planning, development, and performance management of the University’s physical and digital estate, ensuring our infrastructure effectively supports mission, strategic goals, and operational needs. The IPC reviews and challenges strategic frameworks underpinning infrastructure decisions and proposals for major property and digital programmes.

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.
• Support the Board with clear, evidence‑based guidance on risks, investment, and operational readiness.

Who we’re looking for:

• Senior leaders with experience in digital transformation, technology, or infrastructure delivery in complex organisations.
• Expertise in programme governance, risk management, and business case scrutiny.
• Strategic thinkers with independence, sound judgement, and excellent communication skills.
• Commitment to higher education and the University’s values.

Time commitment, term & remuneration

• Term of office: Co‑opted members are appointed for an initial term of up to three years. Reappointment for a second consecutive term of three years is possible, subject to performance and committee needs.
• Remuneration: Non‑remunerated; all reasonable expenses reimbursed.
• Induction & training: Provided.
• Influence major decisions that shape the University’s future.
• Apply your expertise to high‑impact projects across estates, digital, and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with senior leaders and help ensure the University delivers its ambitious strategy.
• Play a part in two landmark developments shaping the University’s future:
  • The Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, opening in Autumn 2026 – a £500 million investment creating a transformative seven‑acre site beside Brunel’s Temple Meads station, dedicated to digital innovation, research, and enterprise.
  • The Mumbai Enterprise Campus, opening in Summer 2026 – the University’s first international campus, developed with Indian partners and government bodies. This milestone in Bristol’s transnational education strategy reflects shared strengths in technology, innovation, and the arts.

Join the University of Bristol as a trusted advisor and help shape a future built on excellence, inclusivity, and partnership.

Additional information

How to Apply –

Please submit:

• Your CV
• A covering letter (max 2 pages) outlining your interest and how you meet the selection criteria

Informal enquiries: Michael Flay, Director of Governance and University Secretary
[e-mail].

Interviews are anticipated to take place on Tuesday, 10th March.

Candidates can expect to receive an outcome no later than Thursday, 26th February.

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Thursday, 12th February.

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched ourstrategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.

Voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed