Who we are

The Council is chaired by the Pro-Chancellor, Quentin Woodley and has a full membership of at least 21 and no more than 23, a majority of whom are independent members drawn from the private and public sector who bring a range of experience and professional expertise to the work of the University and Council.

The President and Vice-Chancellor, Senior Vice-President and Provost and longest standing Vice-President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor are ex-officio members. Three members of Council are elected by Senate, one member is elected by the Professional Services staff and the President of the Students’ Guild and Exeter President, FXU appointed as Student members.

Mike Shore-Nye, Senior Vice-President and Registrar & Secretary, is Secretary to Council. In addition there are a number of standing attendees at Council who shall normally be in attendance for the full duration of Council meetings.

The membership of Council is set out under Section 9 of the Statutes.

Council Nominations Committee is responsible for making recommendations to Council for the nomination of the Pro-Chancellors under Class I of Council membership, the nomination of the Chair of Council, and nominations for the places under Class II of Council membership.

The University Council has ultimate assurance and oversight responsibility for all the University’s activities, including its future strategy, its finances and the fostering of an environment in which Exeter’s mission can be achieved. Independent members of Council act independently at all times in the interests of the institution. Members do not represent any group, sector or constituency.

The Council operates in a regulatory environment and within the highest academic standards. Council operations within the boundaries of the University’s Statutes and ordinances, the education act (2017) and the commitment made to the Office for Students on access and participation. The University commits to providing suitable training to all members of Council to fulfil their responsibilities as charity trustees. As an independent member, you will be performing the same role as trustee of a charity or a non-executive of a company board, and will be fully engaged with the institution’s strategic decision-making processes.

We welcome applicants, especially Exeter alumni. We seek to have diversity of people and skills on the Council. Whilst places are very limited on Council please do contact secretariat@exeter.ac.uk should you think your skills and experience would benefit the university.

The register of interest for members can be found here - Council Register of Interests 2024-2025