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Court Member and Chair of Environment and Infrastructure Committee Vacancy - 2026

Heriot-Watt University is seeking to appoint a new independent lay member of its governing body, the Court, who will also be the Chair of the Environment and Infrastructure Committee. For this appointment, we are seeking a lay member withexperience of environmental sustainability in a business context.

We welcome candidates who have prior non-executive experience and previous experience as a committee chair.

The Court is the governing body of the University with ultimate authority over all of the University’s activities. Court members act as the University’s Trustees and are critical to the operation and function of the University as a Charitable body. By contributing their skills, Court members provide advice to the Executive, act as critical friends and advocates for the University, and ensure that the University operates sustainably and in line with its strategy. You can find more information in the Statement of Primary Responsibilities, which guides the work of the Court.

You can find out more about the role here.

The Environment and Infrastructure Committee provides governance oversight on the development and delivery of the University’s sustainability policy, putting people and sustainability at the heart of its decision making. It also provides governance oversight and advice on the development of the University’s physical and digital infrastructure to support delivery of the University’s Strategy, with an excellent student and staff experience.

Heriot-Watt works within a strategic framework and a strong set of values, putting people at the heart of all we do. The Court is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and wishes to increase its diversity. We welcome applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups (e.g. women and those who are Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic).

Membership of the Court or a Court Committee is a voluntary unpaid role. These positions are therefore likely to appeal to those who wish to contribute to international higher education, widening access, the experience of our students, and the University’s financial sustainability. Lay members enjoy the benefits of contributing within a stimulating environment with like-minded but diverse individuals.

Reasonable out of pocket expenses will be paid in accordance with the University’s Travel and Expenses Policy.

Please note that interviews will be held on Wednesday 29 April 2026 and Thursday 30 April 2026 via Microsoft Teams.

  • Further advice and how to apply is available here
  • Further information about the University is available here
  • Background information on the Court and its Committees is available here

Bruce Pritchard, Chair of Court

Ruth Moir, University Secretary

Heriot-Watt University is a Charity registered in Scotland, SC000278