How UK universities are working to make governance faster, smarter, and more inclusive

Halpin’s (now part of Huron) latest governance effectiveness review digest report, based on 26 institutional reviews across UK institutions, reveals how university boards are evolving amid financial pressure, regulatory change, and rising stakeholder expectations.

Key shifts include:

• Modernising oversight through digital dashboards and refreshed assurance models that help boards focus on what matters most
• Building trust and transparency by strengthening relationships between board leaders and fostering inclusive, open cultures
• Innovating governance practice with new approaches such as student-led agenda items, governance apps, and apprenticeship schemes
• Preparing for the future by embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG)

Although the report draws primarily on governance reviews conducted in the UK, many of its themes apply to broader international discussions on higher education governance.

Explore the full report to discover ways your institution can strengthen leadership, inclusion, and impact in a changing higher education landscape.

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