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Thank you for your interest in Falmouth & Exeter Students’ Union (FXU) and becoming our new Chief Executive Officer. This pack contains an overview of the Union, the role and information on how you can apply.

FXU exists to represent over 7,000 of our members who are based mainly in Cornwall, but additionally we have a growing number of remote, distance learners. Two thirds of these are Falmouth University students and the remainder are from the University of Exeter. We are unique in the sector, as one of our campuses is shared by these two Universities. Therefore, we represent all the students who are sharing this campus and we also work extremely closely with the University Of Exeter Students’ Guild as, together, we represent every Exeter student studying both here in Cornwall and in Devon.

We’re led by students, for students, and provide support, representation, advice and activities throughout the good times and the tough times.

We’re governed by a Board of nine Trustees, four of whom are us, the elected Officers. We also have a small and talented staff team and we have hundreds of student volunteers to run a successful, thriving and active Students’ Union. The Students’ Union has gone through continual development over the past 3 years

INTRODUCTION

after recruiting a number of staff to re-focus the Union into three key areas; Student Voice, Activities and Advice. Each of these teams has a Director and, along with the CEO, joins us to form the Senior Management Team of FXU. It’s a very exciting time for us; we have launched a new strategic plan, have extremely high levels of student engagement all coupled with an extremely positive partnership with the two Universities. Over recent years FXU is proud to have won several national awards, recognising our successes and we’re looking for someone with the experience to help keep us on this path of success.

If you require any practical information about the process please get in contact. Our current Chief Executive Officer, Robert Gofton, is available for an informal chat if this would be helpful to you. Please contact robert@chicks.org.uk to arrange an appointment. Alternatively, if you would like to have an informal conversation with one of us about the role you can contact us at FXU on 01326 253587.

The FXU Presidents

Tom, Chris, Amanda & Alexa

Left to right: Tom, Chris, Amanda, Alexa (FXU Presidents 2016/17)

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ABOUT US

FXU is an independent UK charity and our primary charitable object is the advancement of education of students at Falmouth University and the University of Exeter Cornwall Campuses. We pride ourselves on representing and, promoting the interests and welfare of all our students during their studies. This is all set on our campuses in the unique and beautiful Cornish environment.

We also provide a range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities. Our levels of participation, in these activities, are exceptional and continue to grow each year. We are also keen to ensure that we, and our students, are doing our bit to protect the environment in which we live and work.

All of this work reflects the passion and enthusiasm that our students have here and we are privileged to work on their behalf and to help champion, support and foster this energy.

We are one of the newest students’ unions in the country and recently celebrated our 10th anniversary but in that time we have come a long way and our reputation nationally continues to grow. We have four elected Officers, 20 members of permanent staff and a small team of temporary student staff and volunteers. FXU sells ethically sourced branded clothing and merchandise, and organises all the major events for students such as Freshers, Garden Party and Graduation Ball.

The Students’ Union Trustee Board includes the four Officers, two current students, one open position (external or student) and two external trustees. The Board is responsible for responding to the new challenges and opportunities that the Union will face. FXU does not currently own any bar, shop or coffee outlets which you might typically find at other Students’ Union, which presents a challenge in terms of income generation. But one of our strategic aims it to become more financially sustainable so this is one key area we are keen to develop.

Our Vision“We will be an integral part of every student’s journey. We will constantly

evolve in response to student demands with innovative solutions. We will strive to achieve a degree of financial independence by 2020.”

Our Mission“Your Students’ Union is the open door to all your questions; to opportunities

and advice. We empower you to exceed your expectations and personal aspirations.”

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1. Relevant - We will be connected to our members by understanding what they need and want from us.

2. Responsive - We will be ready to react or reply quickly to our members’ suggestions.

3. Sustainable & Ethical - Conducting ourselves to the highest standards and “doing what’s right” for our members, our organisation and our environment.

4. Innovative & Proactive - A creative and “make it happen” attitude.

5. Diverse & Inclusive - Fundamental to everything we do, both in the way we provide services to our members and the way in which we manage our staff. We are committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect.

6. Fun - A lively, vibrant and enjoyable experience for everyone.

7. Student Led - The student voice will be at the heart of everything we do.

OUR VALUES

OUR STRATEGY1. Amplifying the Student Voice - Hearing what you’ve got to say about your time at University and acting upon it.

2. Active Participation - University is much more than studying. The way you develop, think, evaluate, make friends and memories are often shaped around your involvement in other activities.

3. Supporting and lobbying for an affordable educational experience - University life is an investment but can be expensive. We will try to help you make it more affordable.

4. Move to financial independence - The future of FXU is not in our hands. We want to have more financial control of our destiny so we can support you more.

5. Generate social impact - You are our greatest ambassadors for society and you have the power to influence communities.

6. Create a diverse, equal and multi-campus experience - Understanding and respecting each other regardless of how you came to be here. Regardless of your background, your involvement is essential to us.

7. Internationally focused - In a global market you deserve the best the world can offer.

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We are seeking an inspirational, collaborative and committed leader to support us on our on-going journey in which we seek to fully represent, support and provide additional activities and skills to our members. You may already be in a leadership role within a Students’ Union, but we are also interested in candidates from different sectors who bring transferable skills and are motivated to lead in an organisation that has the potential to make a significant impact on students’ lives.

Our ideal candidate will have strategic or senior management leadership experience in a membership focused organisation with demonstrable experience of delivering effective services and of managing a variety of competing priorities and stakeholder perspectives.

You should be a true people person, with a leadership style that engages key stakeholders within the University and beyond. A key part of your role will be the ability to work with two very different university structures and strategic plans. Additionally, you will be required to work with a joint service provider, FX Plus, which delivers many of the shared campus services such as the Library, Estates and Student Support Services on behalf

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

of the two universities. Understanding this complex and challenging relationship will be key to your success in the role and enable and empower four full-time elected Student Officers and the staff team at FXU. With a collaborative approach, you will be able to build trust quickly and communicate credibly with a wide range of people. You will also need to work collaboratively with the Chief Executive from the University of Exeter Students’ Guild so as to ensure that the unique voice of FXU and its student members is heard clearly by Exeter’s Senior Management Team.

How to Apply:

To apply, please visit the Falmouth University website http://www.falmouth.ac.uk/jobs

Milestone Date

Closing date: 16th October 2016

Candidates contacted by: 28th October 2016

Interviews: Week commencing 14th November

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Post Title: FXU Chief Executive Officer

Salary: This post has been evaluated at Grade7. The current full-time salary range for this grade is £39,324 to £45,562 (£49,772) per annum Increments to progress up the scale are awarded annually on the 1 September, subject to satisfactory service, until the scale maximum is reached. The salary figure in brackets represents the level that could be reached with the award of discretionary increments given for exceptional performance and contribution by an individual.

Hours: 35 hours per week for 52 weeks, usually to be worked on a 7 hour a day basis, Monday to Friday.

Work base: The post is based primarily at the Penryn campus although responsibility extends across all the campuses so time will need to be spent at each of these and off site as required.

Employer: FXU is a registered charity governed by an elected Board of Trustees, to whom all employees are accountable. FXU Staff are employed by Falmouth University on behalf of the FXU Board of Trustees

Date: TBC after interviews

Responsible To: FXU Trustee Board through the elected Sabbatical Presidents.

Responsible For: All permanent FXU staff, financial and physical resources.

Job Purpose: The CEO will be responsible for effective and efficient strategic and operational management of FXU, ensuring the Union adds quantifiable value to the student university experience. As such, the role has responsibility for the delivery of FXU’s purpose, vision and values, strategic and operational plans. The CEO should provide consistent leadership, support and strategic overview; develop and sustain positive relationships with key stakeholders and ensure that FXU works within legal and constitutional frameworks and reflects good practice.

The aim of FXU is to provide effective representation and services for all students of University of Exeter Cornwall Campus and Falmouth University, in order to enhance their well-being and general student experience through social, cultural, political, sporting, welfare, educational and other opportunities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

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FXU

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1 Strategic Leadership and Management

1.1 To develop, maintain and direct a long-term, strategic overview of FXU in line with membership priorities and considerate of related institutional and national policies, developments, trends, etc.

1.2 Lead strategic organisational planning for FXU ensuring that a clear annual plan is produced for all members of the team to work towards.

1.3 Provide professional support to the elected Presidents and Officers in order to ensure they are able to fulfil their trusteeship and representative roles and functions – including inductions, guidance, analysis of information, preparation and presentation of reports and proposals and representation of a considered FXU position on current issues.

1.4 Maintain a working knowledge of key issues and plans of the partner organisations and work alongside the elected Presidents to prepare and present a considered FXU perspective at relevant meetings.

1.5 Provide information, advice and support to FXU Trustees to enable them to make informed decisions and fulfil their legal responsibilities.

1.6 Identify and develop opportunities for growth and expansion in collaboration with the Sabbatical Officers, to support FXU plans.

1.7 Ensure that FXU is effectively member-led and that this ethos is upheld throughout all areas, activities and services across the organisation. 1.8 Maintain a working knowledge and understanding of national policies, issues, developments and trends, etc affecting students’ unions and HEIs.

1.9 Develop and maintain positive working relationships with Senior Managers and appropriate colleagues within Falmouth University, University of Exeter, Falmouth Exeter Plus and University of Exeter Students’ Guild, to support the development of the campuses and student experience.

1.10 Represent FXU and support Presidents on relevant committees, planning groups and professional networks within University of Exeter, Falmouth University, Falmouth Exeter Plus and the wider environment.

2 Organisational Management

2.1 To manage the organisation for and on behalf of the FXU Trustee Board, and ensure that staff are managed effectively in order to create and maintain a high performing, student- focussed and proactive FXU with systems in place to support all FXU functions.

2.2 To be responsible for overall financial, resource and asset management including the development of strategy, business planning and systems for effective financial, policy and process management within FXU.

2.3 Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and statutory requirements, including necessary registrations, licenses and insurance(s), etc.

2.4 Ensure that FXU operates within its established governance structures and that these are reviewed as necessary.

2.5 Direct and support the development of policies, procedures and working practices for the effective operation of all FXU activities and services.

2.6 Ensure that all FXU policies, including human resources, financial and customer service meet legislative requirements and good practice, value diversity and are implemented effectively across all areas of FXU.

2.7 Regularly review performance and operational systems.

2.8 Produce reports, proposals and other documents as required.

3 Financial Management

3.1 Responsible for guiding and supporting the FXU Board in achieving on-going financial stability for FXU, and compliance with relevant accounting regulations, reporting requirements, etc. Providing regular financial reports, submitting proposals, advising and guiding the FXU Board as appropriate.

3.2 Responsible for overseeing the FXU budget and for other financial matters eg obtaining new sources of funding.

3.3 Oversee financial planning – prepare budgets, forecasts, etc – to ensure financial security for FXU’s operations, and to support future developments and plans.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY AND DUTIES

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3.4 Provide effective and efficient management of FXU’s financial resources and authorise payments.

3.5 Liaise and negotiate with the related Institutions to agree funding on an annual basis.

3.6 Identify and explore opportunities to maximise and increase income / develop income generation streams for FXU.

3.7 To be a co-signatory on all FXU bank accounts.

4 Operational Overview and Management

4.1 To ensure that all financial, legal, human resources, IT and other business support functions operate effectively and efficiently to support all activities of FXU.

4.2 Ensure effective communication is developed and maintained within the FXU team, including elected officers and volunteers, and between FXU and students, particularly, but also wider colleagues and the general public at large.

4.3 Liaise with external bodies and organisations such as NUS, accountants, legal advisers, etc.

5 Staff Management

5.1 Responsible for the day-to-day staffing affairs of FXU, including recruitment, appointments, supervision and discipline.

5.2 To lead, develop and support a positive team culture across FXU.

5.3 To directly line manage the following staff: - FXU Advice Director - FXU Activities Director & Deputy CEO - FXU Student Voice Director - FXU Administrator - FXU Executive Support

5.4 To support all permanent members of staff employed within the FXU team.

5.5 To ensure that employees, elected officers and volunteers are aware of FXU’s aims and objectives and the standards of behaviour and performance expected of them.

5.6 Evaluate staffing needs on an on-going basis. Identify and implement and changes required in order to fulfil operational and strategic objectives.

5.7 Prepare job descriptions and undertake effective recruitment, in liaison with the FU Personnel dept.

5.8 Encourage, support and plan staff training and development.

5.9 Ensure cohesion and consistency across the FXU team, in particular with regard to upholding the ethos and core values of FXU being a student-led and democratic organisation.

6 Resource Management

6.1 Oversee the management of all FXU resources (ie physical space resource, minibuses, equipment, etc) in order to achieve optimum performance and benefit for FXU members and staff.

6.2 Ensure that all FXU resources are kept securely and maintained and serviced appropriately.

7 Service Management

7.1 Direct the development of all FXU services in order to achieve FXU’s aims and objectives.

7.2 Ensure individual service areas undertake monitoring, evaluation and review in order to maintain on-going effectiveness and benefit(s) for students, implementing changes where needed.

7.3 Ensure all service areas operate within appropriate health and safety guidelines; that risk assessments are undertaken as necessary, and that any required action or measures are taken. 7.4 Encourage and support best practice in all areas of service, working to guidelines and recognized standards wherever possible and appropriate.

7.5 Ensure that a student focus and input is upheld throughout all areas of FXU service and development.

8 General Duties and Responsibilities

8.1 To work in line with the FXU Mission, Vision and Values at all times, working with others to provide a supportive, responsive, student- centered environment and services.

8.2 To actively support elected student officers, volunteers and employees in playing a full role in FXU decision making and activities, ensuring that FXU maintains a student-led ethos.

8.3 To present a positive image of FXU at all times, through every aspect of your work.

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8.4 To maintain an up to the minute working knowledge of all FXU service areas in order to support them and provide accurate, detailed information to students and others.

8.5 To ensure that all FXU policies, procedures and agreed protocols are adhered to.

8.6 To contribute to FXU planning, review, monitoring and reporting processes and activities.

8.7 To participate in FXU team meetings and activities and represent FXU at other meetings as agreed.

8.8 To ensure that all FXU marketing and communication materials within the designated area of responsibility are accurate and up to date.

8.9 To actively support equality and diversity policies of FXU, the University of Exeter and Falmouth University.

8.10 To respect the rights of individuals by maintaining confidentiality and working in line with data protection legislation.

8.11 To attend training courses as identified and agreed for appropriate development.

8.12 To participate in the Annual Performance Development Review Process

8.13 To communicate, liaise and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues within Falmouth University, University of Exeter and Falmouth Exeter Plus, as well as individuals and organisations outside FXU and the institutions eg suppliers, promoters, local businesses, media / press contacts, etc.

8.14 Working within the Health and Safety at Work Act, the post holder has a legal duty to take reasonable care for Health and Safety both for themselves and others who may be affected by their actions. They are also required to undertake Health and Safety training commensurate with the level required by the post and to take part in risk assessment procedures and the implementation of agreed recommended work practices within the area.

8.15 To undertake other duties not specifically stated above, which from time to time are necessary without altering the nature or level of responsibility involved.

9 Key Links

- FXU Presidents

- CEO Falmouth Exeter Plus

- Senior staff Falmouth University

- Senior staff University of Exeter

- FXU Advice Director

- FXU Activities Director & Deputy CEO

- FXU Student Voice Director

- FXU Executive Support

- University of Exeter (Penryn campus) Finance Team

- CEO University of Exeter Students’ Guild

- Person Specification

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CRITERIA ESSENTIAL DESIRABLE

Knowledge and Experience

Educated to degree level or ability to demonstrate equivalent experience √

Evidence of continuous professional development/management qualification √

Significant experience at a senior management/director level √

Experience in developing, implementing and evaluating operational, business and strategic plans

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Experience of implementing successful change management √

Knowledge of current relevant legislation, including health and safety, employment, financial, and charity

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Understanding of current issues and themes in higher education, student’s unions and third sector

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Experience of supporting and managing change in a user led environment √

Experience of working within a Students’ Union or Higher Education Institution √

An understanding of confidentiality and data protection, and how to implement these, within the role

√

An understanding of, and commitment to Health & safety standards and how to implement them

√

An understanding of and commitment to the principles of Equal Opportunities √

An understanding of maximising the commercial activity of a Students’ Union √

Skills

Empowering leadership √

Exceptional interpersonal and communication, including influencing and advising

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Project Management √

Exceptional relationship and stakeholder management √

Prioritisation √

Proven experience and proficiency in the use of Microsoft packages including Word, Excel and Outlook

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Key attributes

Confident √

Good political antennae √

Calm under pressure √

Self-motivated √

Keeps an open mind and adapts to changes in the working environment √

Ability to respond and adapt to both positive and negative feedback √

Empathy for working with elected officers √

Demonstrate high standards of personal integrity √

Tactful and diplomatic √

Commitment to excellence in the delivery of service √

Commitment to the development and motivation of individuals within FXU. √

Commitment to working within a member-led environment √

Empathy towards and ability to relate to students √

Enthusiasm for working with students √

Person Specification

Post title: FXU Chief Executive Officer / FXU Director