Appointment of two Independent Directors to the OIA Board

Who we are

The OIA is the designated operator of the student complaints scheme for higher education in England and Wales and has become a recognised authority in developing good practice in the handling of student complaints. Since its inception in 2004 the OIA has grown significantly and earned the trust and respect of higher education providers, student organisations and Government. Following the implementation of the Consumer Rights Act 2015, higher education students at Further Education colleges, Alternative Providers and providers of School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITTs) are also covered by the OIA Scheme.

We are a registered Charity, under the supervision of the Charity Commission, and a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The OIA subscribes to the Nolan Rules of fair and open competition in Board appointments.

Our office is based in Reading.

Role and Board focus

The Board is seeking to appoint two Directors capable of combining general governance responsibilities with their skills and experience to contribute to the leadership of the OIA in the emerging higher education sector. Directors have a strategic oversight of the work of the OIA and contribute to policy development.  They must be committed to the mission and objectives of the OIA in its service to students and the higher education sector as well as ensuring the continued independence and integrity of the organisation.

One of the roles is especially designated to bring an additional student perspective to the Board and as such is reserved for a student or someone working within a student led organisation.

For the second appointment, given the OIA’s expanded membership, we particularly encourage applicants with knowledge and experience of the further education sector, Alternative Providers or School-Centred Initial Teacher Training.

Term of office and remuneration

Board Directors serve for terms of office of three years, renewable once. They are remunerated, currently £340 per meeting, and expenses are paid for attendance at Board and other meetings, most of which are held in Reading. There are generally four Board meetings a year and Directors may also be involved in sub committees or working groups.

Equality & Diversity

We welcome diversity amongst our staff and Board to reflect the nature of independent adjudication, our users and stakeholders. Therefore we would particularly welcome applications from women, people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities, who are under-represented on our Board. We are committed to Equality of Opportunity.