Would you like to help shape the sustainability agenda for university estates across the UK and Ireland?

AUDE is seeking a new Chair of the Sustainability Advisory Group (SAG). This influential volunteer role provides an opportunity to lead a group of sustainability professionals, shape AUDE’s priorities and work programme, and ensure that the sustainability challenges and opportunities facing university estates are represented at a strategic level.

If you are interested in the role, please contact Cheryl Pick, AUDE Strategic Projects Manager, using the details below.

About AUDE’s Sustainability Advisory Group

The AUDE Sustainability Advisory Group (SAG) provides strategic advice to the AUDE Executive Committee on sustainability priorities affecting the higher education estates sector.

The group brings members together to share knowledge, develop initiatives and promote good practice, while building relationships with sector partners, government and industry. Its work has a particular focus on supporting the sector’s transition to net zero and strengthening the role of estates and facilities professionals in delivering sustainable development.

The role of Chair

The Chair provides strategic leadership to SAG, working closely with the Deputy Chair, group members and the AUDE team to establish priorities and develop a programme of activity that responds to the needs of AUDE members.

The main responsibilities are to:

• Lead and chair four SAG meetings each year, primarily held via Microsoft Teams.
• Work with SAG members and the AUDE team to develop and oversee the group’s annual work programme.
• Represent SAG on the AUDE Executive Committee, providing strategic updates and ensuring sustainability priorities are reflected in wider AUDE discussions and decision-making.
• Develop relationships and strategic partnerships with relevant organisations, government, industry and other sector bodies.
• Identify opportunities for projects, research, guidance, events and other activity that will benefit AUDE members.
• Champion the role of university estates and facilities teams in delivering net zero and wider sustainability objectives.
• Support effective communication of SAG's work, increasing its reach and impact across the AUDE membership.
• Ensure the group maintains an appropriate and representative membership.
• Represent SAG and AUDE at relevant member events, meetings or external discussions where appropriate.
• Work closely with and support the Deputy Chair, including ensuring continuity of leadership across the group.

Tenure

The appointment is for a three-year term, with the opportunity to serve for a further three years if re-elected. The position can therefore be held for a maximum of six years.

Who we are looking for

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals who:

• currently hold a sustainability-related role within higher education 
• have a good understanding of the sustainability challenges and opportunities facing university estates;
• understand AUDE and the needs of its membership;
• can take a strategic, sector-wide perspective rather than representing the interests of an individual institution;
• are comfortable leading discussions and working collaboratively with a wide range of members and stakeholders;
• can represent the group confidently at senior and Executive Committee level; and
• can commit sufficient time to leading the group and supporting its activities.

Time commitment

The Chair is expected to attend four SAG meetings each year, generally around two hours each, alongside time to review papers and prepare for meetings.

The Chair also represents SAG at AUDE Executive Committee meetings, which take place quarterly in March, June, September and December and last approximately three hours. At least one meeting may be held in person, with the remainder generally taking place via Microsoft Teams. Preparation includes reviewing papers and providing a written update on SAG activity.

There may also be occasional involvement in AUDE events, projects, member communications or external stakeholder activity.

Support from AUDE

The Chair will be supported by the AUDE team, including meeting administration, agendas, notes and action tracking, as well as project and administrative support for the group's wider programme of activity.

What you will gain

Taking on the role provides an opportunity to:

• have a seat on the AUDE Executive Committee;
• influence AUDE's sustainability priorities and activities;
• help shape the sector's response to major sustainability challenges;
• develop relationships with senior estates, sustainability and sector professionals;
• raise your profile and broaden your professional network;
• contribute to projects and initiatives with UK and Ireland-wide impact; and
• play a visible leadership role in the future development of university estates.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying, please email cheryl@aude.ac.uk by 29th January You will be provided with a short application template to complete.

Applications will be reviewed in accordance with AUDE's volunteer appointment process. Further information about volunteering with AUDE is available in the AUDE Volunteer Handbook.