22/07/2015
Schedule of Delegation V1
Plymouth University Schedule of Delegation
Version
Date
Author
Changes
0.1
06/05/2015
Claire Daniells
Development of initial template
0.2
03/06/2015
Claire Daniells
Content added, incorporating feedback from
stakeholders
1.0
04/06/2015
Jane Hopkinson
Final version for approval by UEG and Board of
Governors
1.0
22/07/2015
Jane Hopkinson
Final version approved by Board
Document Owner: University Secretary
In order for the University to carry out all of its functions effectively, staff at all levels of
the organisation need to be confident that they have the delegated authority to make
decisions. The University encourages all staff to take decisions which are within their
areas of responsibility and their knowledge/skills base. The purpose of this document is to
provide guidance to assist staff and also provide clarity on where they do not have the
authority to make decisions.
Principles of Delegation
 Authority to take decisions must be aligned with the skills and knowledge needed
to make relevant judgements.
 Those with authority to take decisions must do so in a consultative manner which
is in keeping with the principles of public life.
 Delegations must be in writing and published, both so that the University can
demonstrate that its decisions are taken transparently, and to protect staff
involved by demonstrating that they had the authority to take the actions they
took.
 All decisions taken under delegated authority must be recorded and should be
open to audit.
 Staff to whom authority to make decisions is delegated must be clear about what
decisions have been delegated to them, the limits of their authority, and that they
are accountable for the decisions they make. The role-holder taking the decision
should seek advice or information from other staff with knowledge relevant to the
decision.
 The person or body who delegates responsibility remains accountable for the
outcome of the decision or work delegated.
 Delegation can be made to groups/committees and/or individuals depending on
their role and remit.
 The person or body responsible for making a decision has the power to withdraw
the decision provided that no associated actions have been implemented.
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Schedule of Delegation V1
Background
Delegation creates the authority to carry out a task or to make a decision. This in turn
creates responsibilities and the requirement that people to whom authority is delegated are
prepared to be accountable for the decisions they have been asked to make. Anyone who
makes a decision must be confident they know the scope of their authority.
This schedule seeks to record where authority rests within the University for particular types
of decision made in the name of, or on behalf of, the University of Plymouth1. No such
schedule can be absolutely comprehensive, but, in addition to explicitly locating the locus of
authority for specific categories of decision, the schedule also forms a frame of reference
through which questions about other types of decision may be resolved. (Questions should
be referred to the University Secretary.) Note that the schedule below purports only to
identify responsibility for the final (‘ratification’) stage of decision-making, and not, for
example, responsibility for formulating strategic, policy and business proposals (which
typically lies with individual executive officers and bodies such as the University Executive
Group).
Board of
Governors
University
Executive/
Academic Board
Faculty/Directorate
School/Service
Team
Individual
The Board of Governors is ultimately responsible for all the University’s activities, but
specifically its educational character and mission, its senior management structure and its
financial solvency. As set out in the guidance from the Committee of University Chairs (CUC)
1
Our formal constitution remains ‘the University of Plymouth’ and this wording will still be used in contracts and other legal
documents. ‘Plymouth University’ is our corporate identity.
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Schedule of Delegation V1
in accordance with which this schedule has been developed, a principal responsibility of the
Board of Governors is:
‘to delegate authority to the head of the institution, as chief executive, for the academic,
corporate, financial, estate and human resource management of the institution. And to
establish and keep under regular review the policies, procedures and limits within such
management functions as shall be undertaken by and under the authority of the head of the
institution’.
The responsibilities of the Board of Governors the Board’s Committees, the Vice-Chancellor,
the Executive and the Academic Board are as set out in the University’s Instrument &
Articles of Government.
Responsibilities
1. As the governing body of the University, the Board of Governors is itself responsible for
approving corporate strategy and associated plans and budgets; for determining major
business decisions and corporate policy; for the framework of governance and management;
and for monitoring institutional and executive performance. These responsibilities are
‘reserved’ to the Board of Governors and, as a general rule, cannot be delegated.
2. The University Executive Group is the primary executive decision-making body of the
University, with responsibility for developing and implementing the strategy. This is
undertaken through regular monitoring of the HE policy environment, approval and review
of key University projects, and monitoring the University’s financial performance and key
performance indicators, which are then reviewed by the Board of Governors.
3. As the academic authority of the University, Academic Board is responsible to the Board
of Governors for academic governance, and specifically for regulating, in accordance with
the Instrument and Articles, the admission of students; the curriculum and assessment; the
maintenance and enhancement of academic standards; and the award of degrees and other
qualifications. Operational responsibility for these matters may in general be delegated. The
University Executive Group includes the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Pro ViceChancellors, Executive Deans, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information officer, Chief
Marketing Officer, Chief Talent Officer and the University Secretary.
4. As the chief executive and senior academic officer of the University, the Vice-Chancellor
is responsible to the Board of Governors – within the framework laid down by the
Instrument and Articles, the Memorandum of Assurance and Accountability between the
University and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), the University’s
Financial Regulations and this Schedule of Delegation – for the operational management of
all aspects of the University’s work. The Vice-Chancellor may delegate – and in practice has
delegated – responsibility for specific aspects of the University’s management to Senior
Leaders/Deans, but retains ultimate responsibility for their work.
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Schedule of Delegation V1
5. The Executive Deans are responsible to the Board of Governors (through the ViceChancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor) for the leadership and overall management of their
respective faculties in accordance with their job descriptions and the policies and Financial
Regulations of the University. They delegate responsibility for specific aspects of faculty
management to Heads of School and other members of the faculty, but retain ultimate
responsibility for the management of their faculties.
6. Senior Leaders are responsible to the Board of Governors (through the Vice-Chancellor
and Deputy Vice-Chancellor) for the leadership and overall management of corporate
services in accordance with their job descriptions and the policies and Financial Regulations
of the University. They delegate responsibility for specific aspects of service management to
heads of service, but retain ultimate responsibility for the management of their service
groups.
7. For financial decisions the Schedule of Financial Limits is the ultimate authority relating to
non-staff spend and should be consulted. It is an annex to the Financial Regulations, which
are available here. As at July 2015, the rule of thumb is that, except as explicitly provided in
the Financial regulations, any transaction with a monetary value of over £500k requires the
approval of the Board of Governors ; any transaction with a monetary value of between
£150k and £500k needs approval by the University Executive Group; any transaction
between £30k and £150k needs approval by the relevant Dean or Director and Chief
Financial Officer; any transaction between £10k and £30k needs approval by the Head of
School or Director and any decision with a monetary value of less than £10k lies within the
jurisdiction of individual University employees in accordance with their specific budgetary
authority and the University’s Financial Regulations.
8. Except as otherwise provided, individuals and bodies in whom authority is vested by this
Schedule of Delegation may sub-delegate to others provided that such sub-delegation is
consistent with financial and other regulations and recorded and reported to the relevant
corporate service (for example, Finance in respect of financial authority levels).
This document sets out activities by area under the headings of:








Governance and Compliance
Strategy and Policy
Human Resources
Students, Teaching and Learning, Quality and Standards
Budgetary and Financial
Capital Investment and Estates
Academic Partnerships
Marketing, Student Recruitment and Development
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1. Governance and Compliance
Key Decision or Activity
Instrument & Articles of
Government
Approval/variation of byelaws
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
the activity or decision and is
formally accountable for the stated
activity or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the stated
activity or decision has been
delegated by the approving body and
This is the group/individual
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
who is therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to the
approving body for their actions in
this respect)
Privy Council
University Secretary
The current Instrument and Articles of Government can be found here.
Changes to the Instrument and Articles are proposed by the Board of
Governors after consultation with Academic Board, the University Executive
Group and the University Solicitor as appropriate, and subject to relevant
external legal advice.
It is intended to introduce simplified Articles in 2015/16.
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Byelaws will be developed (to supplement simplified Articles) in consultation
with Academic Board, the University Executive Group and the University
Solicitor as appropriate
Privy Council
University Secretary
The University’s formal title is the University of Plymouth.
Proposals via the University Executive Group and subject to the agreement of
the Board of Governors.
Board of Governors
University Secretary
The University’s trading name is Plymouth University
Proposals via the University Executive Group.
Privy Council
University Secretary
These are within the Instrument & Articles of Government
Board of Governors composition
Board of Governors
University Secretary
This is within the Instrument & Articles of Government
Appointment of independent
governors
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Appointment follows external advertisement/search and interview.
Appointment of staff governors
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Staff governors may be directly elected from Academic Board or co-opted after
all-staff elections.
Elections follow discussion with the University Secretary/governors panel about
the trustee role.
Appointment of student
governors
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Student governors are nominated by UPSU
Board of Governors
committees(formation/deletion,
designation, terms of reference,
composition)
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Proposals via Governance and Nominations Committee.
Change of institutional title
Change of trading name
Board of Governors terms of
reference
Governance and Nominations
Committee
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
the activity or decision and is
formally accountable for the stated
activity or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the stated
activity or decision has been
delegated by the approving body and
This is the group/individual
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
Board of Governors effectiveness
review
Board of Governors
Governance and Nominations
Committee
University Secretary
The Board will undertake regular effectiveness reviews, with an external review
at least every three years
Outcomes will be published on the University website.
Reviews of Committee
effectiveness
Board of Governors
Governance and Nominations
Committee
Committee Chair and
University Secretary
Reviews should take place at least once every five years.
Appointment of Chancellor
Board of Governors
Chair
Appointment of Pro-Chancellors
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Appointment of Clerk to the
Board
Board of Governors
Appointment of Chair and ViceChair of the Board of Governors
Board of Governors
Senior Independent Governor
University Secretary
Appointment of Senior
Independent Governor
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Structure of management
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor
Register of Interests
Board of Governors
University Secretary
Executive Assistant (Board of
Governors)
All Board members to complete/update regularly
Formal review annually as part of external audit
Use of the University Seal
Board of Governors
Chair/Vice-Chair & ViceChancellor/University Secretary
Executive Assistant (Board of
Governors)
Required for all deeds
Held by University Secretary
Academic Board terms of
reference
Privy Council
University Secretary
Board of Governors
Academic Board Secretary
Academic Board composition
who is therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to the
approving body for their actions in
this respect)
Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor
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On recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor
After discussion between Chair, Vice-Chancellor and Chancellor
Selection panel agreed in consultation with Board Chair, to include governor
members
Chair to absent him/herself from selection process and election.
After consultation with Chair
On recommendation from Academic Board to the Board of Governors
Proposals from Academic Board
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
the activity or decision and is
formally accountable for the stated
activity or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the stated
activity or decision has been
delegated by the approving body and
This is the group/individual
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
who is therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to the
approving body for their actions in
this respect)
Academic Board committees
(formation/deletion/designation/
terms of reference/ composition)
Academic Board
Academic Board Secretary
Proposals from committees
Election/nomination of Academic
Board members
Academic Board
Academic Board Secretary
In accordance with agreed procedures
Award of honorary fellowships
and degrees
Board of Governors/
Academic Board
Honorary Awards Committee
University Secretary
Criteria agreed by Honorary Awards Committee
University Executive Group terms
of reference
Vice-Chancellor
Clerk to UEG
After discussion with University Executive Group
University Executive Group
committees
(formation/deletion/designation,
terms of reference/ composition)
University Executive Group
Clerk to UEG
Proposals from committees or executive members
University Committee Calendar
University Executive Group
University Secretary
The Committee Calendar is produced in consultation with committee officers.
The calendar for the current session can be found here : Committee Calendar
2015/16 or Alpha list of committee dates 2015/16
Compliance with Charity Law
Board of Governors
Compliance with HEFCE
Memorandum of Assurance and
Accountability
Vice-Chancellor (as
Accountable Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Vice-Chancellor
University Solicitor
University Solicitor
University Secretary may authorise legal advice for Board of Governors
Board of Governors
Audit Committee
Chair of Audit
University Secretary
After appropriate procurement process
Data Protection
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Relevant Dean/ Senior Leader
Information Governance
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Chief Information Officer
Procurement of legal advice
Appointment of Internal Auditors
University Secretary/University Advice should be sought in relation to any activity which is outwith the
Solicitor/Chief Financial Officer University’s core business of teaching and research
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
the activity or decision and is
formally accountable for the stated
activity or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the stated
activity or decision has been
delegated by the approving body and
This is the group/individual
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
Copyright
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Chief Information Officer
Compliance with Freedom of
Information act
Vice-Chancellor
University Solicitor
University Solicitor
University Publication Scheme
University Executive Group
Chief Information Officer
Chief Information Officer
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Chief Information Officer
Government Department
Vice-Chancellor
Relevant Dean or Senior
Leader
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Safety Committee
Safety officer
External use of University
computing and software facilities
Approval of regulatory licences
(Human Tissue Act, Premises
Licences (alcohol)
Health and Safety
who is therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to the
approving body for their actions in
this respect)
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Appeals via the Chief Information Officer
With Freedom of Information officer
All staff have a responsibility for health and safety, acting on advice and
information from the University Safety Officer and the Safety Committee and
local safety officers
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Schedule of Delegation V1
2. Strategy and Policy
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
The current University Strategy can be found here
The University Executive Group is accountable to the Vice-Chancellor for the development of
the Strategy, and it is developed with support from the Strategy and Performance Team and
taking account of inputs from staff, students and other stakeholders.
Proposals are formally considered via Academic Board/University Executive Group and
relevant Board Committees
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of University Vision,
Mission and Strategy
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of implementation
plan and year-on-year
targets
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of International
Strategy
Board of Governors
University Executive Group
Development led by the relevant member of the Executive in consultation with the Academic
Board and other appropriate groups.
Approval of Estate Strategy
Board of Governors
University Executive Group
Development led by the relevant member of the Executive in consultation with the Academic
Board, Finance Committee and other appropriate groups.
Approval of Financial
Strategy
Board of Governors
Chief Financial Officer
Approval of Reward Strategy
Board of Governors
Reward and
Remuneration
Committee
Development led by Chief Financial officer in consultation with University Executive Group
Chief Talent Officer
Development in consultation with staff and staff unions and the University Executive Group
Approval of Teaching,
Learning and Student
Experience Strategy(ies)
Academic Board
University Executive Group
Development led by the relevant member of the Executive in consultation with the Teaching,
Learning and Quality Committee and University Executive Group and with appropriate input
from students and faculty staff.
Approval of Research
Strategy
Academic Board
University Executive Group
Development led by the relevant member of the Executive in consultation with the Research
and Innovation Committee and University Executive Group with appropriate input from
faculties.
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that the
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of other associated
strategies (eg sustainability)
University Executive Group
Relevant executive
The development of supporting Strategies is led by the relevant member of the Executive in
consultation with the appropriate Boards/Committees.
Vice-Chancellor
Deans and Directors
Process designed and led by the Strategy and Performance Team.
Approval of University Key
Performance Indicators
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of statutory data
returns (including data
quality)
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Approval of Risk
Management Policy and Risk
Appetite
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Developed by the Chief Financial Officer who is accountable to the Vice-Chancellor
Proposals via the University Executive Group and Audit Committee.
Relevant risks will also be shared with Academic Board
Approval of Corporate Risk
Register
Board of Governors
Chief Financial Officer
Developed by the Chief Financial Officer
Proposals via the University Executive Group and the Audit Committee.
Reviewed by the Board at least annually.
Risk management is monitored by the Audit Committee which reports to the Board
Approval of Value for Money
Strategy
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of Business
Continuity Policy
Vice Chancellor
Chief Financial Officer
Data Sharing Agreements
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Information Officer
Approval of Faculty and
Directorate Business
planning
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Developed by University Executive Group in consultation with stakeholders (with support
from the Strategy and Performance Team)
Deans and Directors are accountable to the Vice-Chancellor for the reporting of performance
against Key Performance Indicators.
Subject to regular review by Audit Committee
Developed by the Chief Financial Officer
Proposals via University Executive Group and Academic Board as appropriate
Monitored via the Audit Committee and the Board of Governors, with an annual report made
to HEFCE.
Proposals via University Executive Group
Subject to internal audit
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Schedule of Delegation V1
3. Human Resources
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that has
ultimate authority to approve an
activity or decision and is held to
account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of/changes to/ HR
policies and procedures that
could lead to a termination of
employment
Board of Governors
Appointment of Vice-Chancellor
Board of Governors
Employment Committee
Chief Talent Officer/HR
Director
The Employment Committee will also undertake a rolling review of HR policies more
generally
Chair
University Secretary
Appointment made after widespread consultation and engagement of staff, students
and stakeholders as appropriate
Appointment of direct reports
to the Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor
Appointment of Deans/
Directors
Vice-Chancellor
Appointment of Heads of
School
Vice-Chancellor
Professorial Recruitment
Vice-Chancellor
Staff appointments
Vice-Chancellor
Dean or Director
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Delegation when costs within approved financial envelope, (provided other controls
not currently applied by UEG).
If outside approved financial envelope, Recruitment Exceptions Committee.
Staff promotions
Vice-Chancellor
Dean or Director
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Appraisal of Vice-Chancellor
Appraisal of Staff
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Member(s) of Board of Governors must be in membership of the selection panel
Salary proposals outwith policies agreed by Reward and Remuneration Committee
require approve from the Chair of that Committee or Board Chair
Direct report to the VC (e.g.
CIO for Director of Estates)
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR Community)
Members of Board of Governors on selection panel
Deputy Vice-Chancellor
Dean
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Dean
Head of School
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR Community)
Board of Governors
Chair
Vice-Chancellor
Designated Line Manager
After appropriate consultation with all governors about objectives and performance
and in accordance with agreed University procedures, and taking account of 360˚
feedback.
The Chair will report back to the Reward and Remuneration Committee on outcomes
(other than confidential matters)
Relevant University leaders
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In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that has
ultimate authority to approve an
activity or decision and is held to
account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Dismissal of Vice-Chancellor
Board of Governors
Chair
Dismissal of direct reports to
the Vice-Chancellor
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor and Chief
Talent Officer
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Dismissal of Deans/Directors
Vice-Chancellor
Relevant line manager
Line Manager and Director of
HR
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Approval of Terms and
conditions of employment
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Talent Officer and
Director of HR
In accordance with agreed policies and procedures (see HR community)
Executive remuneration incl.
Performance Related Pay
Board of Governors
Reward and
Remuneration Committee
Chair/
Vice-Chancellor/Chief talent
Officer
Approval of recommended
national pay award
Board of Governors
Reward and
Remuneration Committee
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of outside
work/consultancy by University
staff
Vice-Chancellor
Deans/Research and
Innovation
Professional services
restructuring
Vice-Chancellor
Legal advice to be obtained through University Secretary
In accordance with policies and procedures agreed by the Reward and Remuneration
Committee from time to time
Approval via faculties or Research and Innovation (R&I) (work going through University
of Plymouth Enterprise Ltd (UoPEL) is handled by R&I).
via University Executive Group
A proposal which might result in redundancy must be considered by the Board of
Governors. The Board may refer the matter back for further information/review.
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Schedule of Delegation V1
4. Students, Teaching & Learning, Quality & Standards
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that has
ultimate authority to approve an
activity or decision and is held to
account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act (but
required to account to the
approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of Students’ Union
constitution
Board of Governors
UPSU
University Secretary
Approval of Students’ Union
byelaws
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Executive responsible for
UPSU liaison
Approval of Students’ Union
funding
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Financial Officer
Approval of Academic
Regulations
Academic Board
(See notes)
Approval of Student
Admissions and Recruitment
Policies
Academic Board
Minor changes to regulations agreed by Teaching, Learning and Quality Committee on
the recommendation of the Academic Regulation Sub-Committee.
Major changes or those involving changes to underlying principles recommended by
ARSC via TLQC.
Chief Marketing Officer
Approval of Student
Complaints Procedure
Board of Governors
Academic Board
Student Complaints and
Appeals Officer
Approval of Student
Disciplinary Procedure
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Student Complaints and
Appeals Officer
Annual report on student complaints to be submitted to Academic Board and Board of
Governors
Approval of sanctions for
student debt
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Financial Officer
Programme planning and
approval
Academic Board
Academic Development &
Partnerships Committee
Requirements for reporting to provide appropriate assurance to be set by Academic
Board
Closure of programmes
Academic Board
Academic Development &
Partnerships Committee
Requirements for reporting to provide appropriate assurance to be set by Academic
Board
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Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that has
ultimate authority to approve an
activity or decision and is held to
account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act (but
required to account to the
approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Academic restructuring
Vice-Chancellor
Programme validation and
monitoring
Academic Board
Teaching, Learning and
Quality Committee
Annual report to Board of Governors via Academic Board
Appointment of External
Examiners
Academic Board
Teaching, Learning and
Quality Committee
Annual report summarising external examiner comments to Board of Governors via
Academic Board
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
University Executive Group
Vice-Chancellor
Relevant executive
Relevant executive
Approval of student tuition
fee rates
Approval of student
residential fees
Approval of scholarships
University Executive Group
via University Executive Group, Academic Development and Partnerships Committee as
appropriate, and Academic Board
A proposal to close a discipline area (with potential media interest and reputational
impact); a proposal to introduce a new discipline area where that proposal has
significant resource implications; or a proposal which might result in redundancy ,
must be considered by the Board of Governors. The Board may refer the matter back
for further information/review.
Deans
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Schedule of Delegation V1
5. Budgetary & Financial
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of financial
statements
Board of Governors
Chief Financial Officer
Approval of Annual Assurance
return/Financial Forecasts to
HEFCE
Board of Governors
Chief Financial Officer
Appointment of external
auditors
Board of Governors
Chief Financial Officer
Systems of internal financial
management, control and
accountability
Vice-Chancellor (as
Accountable Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Budget holders
Retention of financial
documents
Vice-Chancellor (as
Accountable Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Appointment of bankers,
opening of bank accounts,
designation of bank account
signatories
Board of Governors
Philanthropic donations and
sponsorship
Board of Governors
(retains authority if
donation is above £1m)
University Executive
Group if over £100K
Director of Development
Shares in companies – new
companies to be incorporated
Board of Governors
Finance Committee
Chief Financial
Officer/University Secretary
Shares in companies – change
in control or purchase/sale
Board of Governors
Finance Committee
Chief Financial Officer
Treasury Management Policy
Board of Governors
Finance Committee
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Page 15 of 21
Following relevant procurement/HEFCE regulations
On recommendation of Audit Committee
On recommendation of Finance Committee
Report to Board of Governors in case of potential reputational risk (even if mitigation in
place)
If value of over £1m, requires Board of Governors approval
22/07/2015
Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Borrowing; over £0.5m
Board of Governors
Finance Committee if
under £1m
Chief Financial Officer
On recommendation of University Executive Group/Finance Committee
Borrowing: under £0.5m
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
via University Executive Group
Establishment of University
companies/spin-outs/joint
ventures
Board of Governors
Finance Committee
Appointment of Directors of
subsidiary companies
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Approval of sale of equity or
transfer of business in
University companies
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor if sale
value below £100K
Finance Committee if sale
value between £100K and
£0.5m
Approval of non-academic
business activities with a
potential material impact on
the University
Board of Governors
Write off of bad debt
Board of Governors
University Executive
Group if below £0.5m
Chief Financial Officer
alone if below £100K
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer can delegate authority for sums of under £10K
Commitment/purchases of
goods or services
Board of Governors
Refer to Schedule of
Spending limits (an Annex
to the Financial
Regulations, which
are available here.) for
current authority limits
Chief Financial Officer
Matters will be referred to the Board where necessary under the Financial Regulations
having first been considered by the University Executive Group (and Finance Committee
if Finance Committee does not have delegated authority))
All IT related spend must be agreed by Chief Information Officer or his/her delegate
All property and facilities related spend must be agreed by Director of Estates and Capital
Projects or his/her delegate
via Research & Innovation and University Executive Group
Annual report to the Board of Governors if the University is the majority shareholder
Annual report to Finance Committee
Chief Financial Officer
Vice-Chancellor
Page 16 of 21
via University Executive Group
22/07/2015
Key Decision or Activity
Schedule of Delegation V1
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Submission and acceptance of
Research Bids : over £1m
University Executive Group
Submission and acceptance of
Research Bids : £250k-£1m
University Executive Group
DVC
PVC Research or equivalent
If over £150K and repayable on demand, full approval from University Executive Group is
required
Submission and acceptance of
Research Bids : under £250K
University Executive Group
Dean
PVC Research or equivalent
If over £150K and repayable on demand ,full approval from University Executive Group is
required
Approval of TRAC return
Board of Governors
PVC Research or equivalent
Chief Financial Officer
Page 17 of 21
via University Executive Group
22/07/2015
Schedule of Delegation V1
6. Capital Investment & Estates
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that has
ultimate authority to approve an
activity or decision and is held to
account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
Director of Estates and
Capital Projects
Including construction, acquisition, refurbishment and leasing of properties relating to
these projects)
Matters will be referred to the Board where necessary under the Financial Regulations
having first been considered by the University Executive Group (and Finance Committee
if Finance Committee does not have delegated authority))
Director of Estates and
Capital Projects
On recommendation of University Executive Group and Finance Committee
With advice from the University Solicitor
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of capital and
infrastructure projects and
acquisition of property
Board of Governors
Disposal of property
(including leasing/licensing)
Board of Governors
Contracts in relation to
residential accommodation
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Board of Governors
Vice-Chancellor
Safety Officer
Health and Safety
Refer to Schedule of
Spending limits (an Annex
to the Financial
Regulations, which
are available here) for
current authority limits
Page 18 of 21
Annual Report to Board of Governors via Safety Committee
22/07/2015
Schedule of Delegation V1
7. Academic Partnerships
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Standard Template Agreements
Approval of standard template
agreements for academic
partnerships (eg progression,
articulation, exchange and
academic co-operation
agreements and memoranda of
understanding)
Academic Board
Dean of Academic
Partnerships
Drawn up with advice from University Solicitor and Quality Office
via University Executive Group and Academic Development & Partnerships
Committee
Revisions in respect of individual arrangements must have approval of the University
Solicitor on advice from the Quality Office
Specific academic partnership arrangements
Note: the processes defined below are those of in-principle approval. For the majority of arrangements there will also be a detailed scrutiny focused on quality and standards and the student experience,
undertaken in accordance with the University Quality Assurance Handbook under the aegis of Academic Board
Approval of
progression/articulation
arrangement
Academic Board
Academic Development &
Partnerships Committee
Dean of Academic
Partnerships
In accordance with Articulation/Progression Policy and Guidance and with advice
from Quality Office and approval of the relevant Faculty Dean(s)
Approval of exchange
arrangements
Academic Board
Academic Development &
Partnerships Committee
Dean of Academic
Partnerships
with advice from Quality Office and approval of the relevant Faculty Dean(s)
Approval of joint/dual award
arrangements
Academic Board
Dean of Academic
Partnerships
with advice from Quality Office and approval of the relevant Faculty Dean(s)
Approval of UK or international
validation/ franchise/academic cooperation arrangement other
than those specified above
Board of Governors
Academic Board
(but see notes)
Following completion of due diligence in accordance with the University Quality
assurance handbook and on recommendation from Academic Development &
Partnerships Committee and University Executive Group
Any arrangement deemed by Academic Development and Partnerships Committee
or University Executive Group to involve high reputational, financial or staff risk
(before risk mitigation applied) requires approval from the Board of Governors
All new off-campus delivery agreements to be reported to the Board of Governors
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Schedule of Delegation V1
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity
or decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken
forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to
the approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Signing academic partnership
agreements
Academic Board
See University policy on
minimum levels of
authority
Termination of Academic Partnerships
Dissolution of academic
partnership arrangement
Board of Governors
Academic Board
(but see notes)
on recommendation from Academic Development & Partnerships Committee and
University Executive Group
Any dissolution deemed to involve high reputational, financial or staff risk (before
risk mitigation applied) requires approval from the Board of Governors
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22/07/2015
Schedule of Delegation V1
8. Marketing, Student Recruitment & Development
Key Decision or Activity
Approving Body
Delegated Authority
Responsible for Delivery
Notes
This is the group/individual that
has ultimate authority to approve
an activity or decision and is held
to account for the stated activity or
decision.
This is the group/individual to
which/whom authority for the
stated activity or decision has
been delegated by the
approving body and who is
This is the group/individual that is
responsible for ensuring that a
decision or activity is taken forward.
Explanatory notes and links to relevant guidance or policies can be found here.
therefore authorised to act
(but required to account to the
approving body for their
actions in this respect)
Approval of the use of the
University Crest/branding
Approval of filming
agreements
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Authorisation of media
releases
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Board of Governors to be advised of any issues which may impact on reputation
Crisis Communications
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Board of Governors to be advised
Approval of/changes to the
University’s brand
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
via University Executive Group
Board of Governors to be advised
Approval of Alumni and other
fund raising campaigns
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
via University Executive Group
Board of Governors to be advised
Approval of internal
communications strategy
Vice-Chancellor
Chief Marketing Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
via University Executive Group
Page 21 of 21