Newcastle University is a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group and one of the UK’s leading research-intensive institutions. Located in the heart of the North East, its 50-acre city-centre campus is a dynamic hub for teaching, research and collaboration. With a truly global reach, including campuses in Singapore and Malaysia, Newcastle supports a diverse community of over 29,000 students and is ranked among the top 140 universities worldwide. Renowned for world-leading research and teaching, the University is also firmly focused on the future of learning and sustainability, consistently recognised among the world’s leading institutions for sustainability.
Context.
As several members of Newcastle University’s Council approached the end of their terms of office, the University seized the opportunity to reevaluate the Board’s strategic direction and future needs. The aim was twofold: to ensure the Council remained sharply focused on advancing Newcastle’s ambitions and to strengthen its diversity to reflect the dynamic and inclusive community it serves.
To support this objective, Newcastle University engaged Peridot Partners to facilitate a targeted recruitment process. This search was designed not only to fill impending vacancies but also to elevate the Council’s collective capability.
The process emphasised the importance of attracting experienced, senior-level leaders with a proven ability to guide large, complex organisations. This approach ensured that new appointments would bring both strategic depth and fresh perspectives, enhancing the Board’s effectiveness and representation.
Brief.
Following comprehensive and in-depth briefings with all key stakeholders, including Council members and the senior leadership team, we developed a detailed understanding of the qualities and experience required for the incoming Council members.
While prior non-executive experience was not essential, it was clear that candidates needed to bring strong board-level experience and a senior strategic mindset to add meaningful value to the Council’s work. A demonstrated commitment to education and the mission and values of Newcastle University was also identified as a key requirement. Key areas of our search focused on: senior strategic individuals, government policy, PR, estates and skills innovation.
Candidates with an understanding of the communities served by the University were especially welcomed, as this could help foster a strong connection with the institution and its local community. Given Newcastle University’s national and international reach, the University was also fully supportive of candidates from outside the region, provided these candidates could demonstrate genuine motivation and commitment to the role and the University.
Outcome.
Following an extensive and competitive recruitment process, we attracted over 25 applications for the governance vacancies at Newcastle University. Along with the panel, we conducted a thorough and meticulous shortlisting process to identify the candidates who aligned most with the University’s strategic objectives and values.
After a successful interview period, the following four distinguished individuals were invited to join the University’s Board of Council Members:
- Director General in the Ministry of Housing, Community and Local Government
- Chief Strategic Officer of CPI (a UK innovation catalyst that helps companies scale and commercialise deep-tech solutions)
- Head of Strategic Communications of MHP Group (a strategic communications agency that connects brands, businesses, and policymakers through integrated campaigns)
- Chairman of Hanro
These new members have commenced their terms of office and are already making significant contributions to the University’s governance, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the institution’s leadership.
“We worked with Peridot to help us identify and appoint four new members of our University governing body. They produced a high-quality longlist of individuals matching our skills and diversity requirements and were extremely insightful, efficient and supportive throughout the process. We are delighted with the outcome and feel sure that our newly recruited members will add significant strength to the board.”
Head of Executive and Governance Office, Newcastle University
Feedback from appointed candidates.
“Peridot has proven to be a professional organisation with excellent sectoral knowledge. Becoming a Lay Member of Newcastle University Council is an exciting opportunity to work with a globally respected Higher Education institution that is critically important to the success of the North East.”
“It was a pleasure working with Sophie Carney at Peridot from inception to interview and outcome of this non-executive opportunity. Sophie was accurate, thorough and professional in her engagement and knew her client’s requirements very well.”
“When considering a role like this, having the right information is vital. It’s a big commitment, and I wanted to get it right. Sophie was hugely knowledgeable about the role and why she believed it was a great fit for me – she was supportive and thoughtful without being pushy or overbearing.”
Olivia Robson is a Senior Consultant committed to finding passionate people for higher education organisations and contributing to creating impactful change for future generations.
