1.8 Relationship between Council and the Vice-Chancellor
The relationship between Council and the Vice-Chancellor as chief executive officer of the University is critical to the effective operation of the Council. It is built on respect, trust and mutual endeavour, and evolves not only with the development of the University and in the changing higher education environment, but also as the personalities and knowledge base and skills of the Council change over time. In fostering the relationship, members of Council must make a clear distinction between matters of governance and policy which are Council's responsibility and matters of administration and management which are the Vice-Chancellor's responsibility.
Both levels of Government are requiring Councils to act more strategically to anticipate and resolve issues that affect higher education. Council needs sufficient appropriate information for members to exercise independent judgement on issues facing the University and monitor operational performance and progress towards achievement of the University's aims and ambitions. The Vice-Chancellor has a central role in supporting the flow of information to Council through reporting strategically focussed information and advice on the performance of the University against plans, and identifying and reporting on impending issues and risks facing the University.
Members are expected to make reasonable enquiries to ensure that the University and Council are operating efficiently, effectively and legally. This requires diligent analysis of all proposals placed before Council and its committees. In reviewing proposals and considering recommendations, members concentrate on questions that look to future implications of policies and procedures, rather than implementation issues. Council deliberations on any issue are confidential to Council members.