In collaboration with the Committee of University Chairs, Leading the Board is designed to support those who are new to leading, or aspire to lead, a governing body (or committee) of a higher education institution. These sessions are delivered with a focus on many of the current challenges of leading a board, including during a time of crisis, and will enable attendees to develop their confidence, skills and knowledge.
The series of events will provide an opportunity to discuss and examine the role of the Chair in leading the board and the importance of creating boardroom culture and practice that enables effective governance and oversight.
This programme will be delivered across three 90-minute, stand alone, sessions.
Who is the programme for?
These sessions are designed to support those who lead, or aspire to lead, a governing body. The Chair is responsible for the leadership of the governing body or sub-committee and ensuring it operates effectively and efficiently. Those who take on the responsibility play a central role in establishing the culture by which the governing body operates and the extent to which openness and debate at its meetings is encouraged.
Booking information
Session 1 – 4 November 2026
Session 2 – 3 February 2027
Session 3 – 28 April 2027
All sessions take place from 09:00 to 10:30 GMT.
Delivery: Online
We are pleased to offer a 5% early booking discount on bookings made before 30 September 2026:
Event type
Governance
Event summary
A series of events supporting new, experienced and aspiring leaders of governing bodies and committees in higher education institutions.
Event times
Wed 4 Nov 2026 – Wed 28 Apr 2027
Event prices
| GCPD Leading the Board – 26/27 – Member Ticket | Member Ticket | £245 |
| GCPD Leading the Board – 26/27 – Early Booking Member Ticket | Member Ticket (Early Bird) | £235 |
| GCPD Leading the Board – 26/27 – Non-Member Ticket | Non-Member ticket | £325 |
| GCPD Leading the Board – 26/27 – Early Booking Non-Member Ticket | Non-Member Ticket (Early Bird) | £310 |
Learning Outcomes
- Improve your understanding of the policy environment and how this impacts the work of the governing body.
- Reflect on the boundary between governance and management and your role as Chair in helping to manage this.
- Further build networks with other Chairs across higher education.
- Develop a governing body with an effective skillset, including transformation, turnaround and financial
In partnership with
Speakers
Speakers for the sessions will include those with expertise and experience of the challenges faced by board chairs and members.
Aaron Porter
Associate Director (Governance)
Aaron leads on Advance HE governance activity through the delivery of our national Governor Development Programme which engages with around 900 governors across the UK on an annual basis. He has extensive experience leading reviews of over 25 governing boards. Aaron was previously President of the National Union of Students (NUS) and also chair of trustees for the organisation.
