Understanding Business Unit Leadership Governance and Risk Management: what does it mean for a business unit manager? Bronwyn Simondson 23 June 2011

Overview Leading and managing in the University: some initial observations What is governance What is risk management Understanding the University What does all this mean for you

Leading and managing in the University: some initial observations Agency: for whom? Accountability and responsibility: problem-solving The art of decision-making Mindfulness Willingness to take advice Willingness to exercise judgement

What is governance? A definition (Auditor-General of Australia, 2001) –Corporate governance boils down to how an organisation is managed, its corporate and other structures, its culture, its policies and strategies, and the ways in which it deals with its various stakeholders. Or put simply, it is the system by which companies are directed and controlled. The governance framework is concerned with structures and processes for decision-making and with the controls and behaviours that support effective accountability for performance outcomes and results

Governance contd Universities Australia: Voluntary Code for University Governance –focus on fiduciary responsibility of directors and officers: duty of loyalty and duty of care (these have a statutory basis in the University Act) –focus on managing legal, commercial and financial risk –composition of University Councils –Reporting on statutory obligations (eg OH&S)

What is risk management In sum, about ensuring the sustainability of an organisation via: –management of reputation (compliance) –calculated strategic risk-taking to ensure organisational sustainability It is about taking care: for the organisation’s reputation and competitive future; and for staff and students

Understanding the University Established as a body corporate by the Flinders University of South Australia Act 1966 Can sue and be sued A large employer subject to numerous legal and social obligations Ultimate authority vested in the University Council

Understanding the University contd University Council responsible for: –Appointing the Vice-Chancellor, oversight of management performance –Strategic direction and annual budget –Approving and monitoring systems of control and accountability (decision-making structures, policy, risk management profile) –Approval of commercial operations –Overseeing and monitoring academic activities

Understanding the University contd Council approves –Policy: sets standards and expectations, mandates behaviour, ensures compliance with statutory and other obligations –Formal decision-making structures –Academic organisational structure –Line management structures

Understanding the University contd Council has power of delegation –Policy on Delegations of Authority to Enter into Contracts (and schedule) –Policy on Authorisation of University Expenditure (and schedule)

Governance and risk management and you You are: – an agent of the University –responsible for business outcomes You will need to –make decisions, –be transparent (accountability) –take care, exercise diligence, be mindful (risk management) –stick to the rules

Governance and risk management and you You need to know – the University’s strategic direction and priorities and where your School fits –The lines of management authority and where you fit –What you are authorised to do (policy, delegations) –Where to go for advice

A final word Build relationships Take responsibility Be philosophical: it is a rich tapestry