Explanatory note

This Order sets out the governance arrangements for Robert Gordon University (“the University”), replacing the arrangements set out in the Robert Gordon University (Scotland) Order of Council 2006, which is revoked.

Article 1 provides that the Order comes into force on 1 January 2020. Article 2 provides various definitions of terms that are used in the Order.

Articles 3 and 4 in Part 2 of the Order make provision in relation to the University. Article 3 narrates the change of name of the University to Robert Gordon University and provides that references to the previous name are to be read as references to the new name from the date of coming into force of this Order. Article 4 sets out the objects of the University.

Articles 5 to 15 in Part 3 of the Order make provision for the Board. Article 5 makes provision for the functions and duties of the Board. Article 6 provides that the Board may delegate its functions and duties but sets out matters that must not be delegated.

Article 7 sets out the composition of the Board. Article 8 makes further provision for the appointment of the Chair of the Board who is to be appointed in accordance with the 2016 Act and an appointment process prescribed by the Board. Article 9 provides that the Board is to appoint a Vice-Chair from among the lay members who, in the absence of the Chair of the Board or when that position is vacant, is to chair meetings of the Board and exercise the functions of the Chair of Board. In the absence of both the Chair of the Board and the Vice-Chair at any meeting, the Board is to appoint a chair from among the lay members.

Article 10 provides that the Board is to make rules for the election of the member from the Academic Council and for the election of members by the staff. Article 11 provides that the Board is to make rules for the nomination of the members nominated by the trade unions and students’ association (and is to consult the representatives of anyone with a right of nomination under and affected by the proposed rules).

Article 12 provides that the Board is to make rules relating to the term of office of its Governors, eligibility for re-appointment and maximum term of office. Article 13 makes provision regarding the responsibilities of the Board’s Governors. Article 14 provides that the Board may make rules relating to the procedure for resignation and removal of its members. Article 15 provides that the Board may make rules for identifying and managing conflicts of interest of its Governors and members of its committees.

Articles 16 and 17 in Part 4 of the Order make provision relating to the Academic Council. Article 16 provides that the composition of the Academic Council is to be determined by the Board in accordance with the 2016 Act and the Board is to make rules relating to the term of office of Academic Council members, including eligibility for re-appointment. Article 17 makes provision regarding the functions and duties of the Academic Council.

Article 18 makes transitional provisions. Article 19 revokes the Robert Gordon University (Scotland) Order of Council 2006 and the Robert Gordon University (Scotland) Amendment Order of Council 2006.