Work for Outside Bodies Policy and University Consultancy Policy
07 Mar 2025
The University introduces two new policies to replace the previous Policy on Outside Work and Consultancy
We are pleased to share the introduction of two new policies: the Work for Outside Bodies Policy and the University Consultancy Policy. These have been developed to enhance and clarify the previous Policy on Outside Work and Consultancy.
There is huge value in working with external organisations and engaging in consultancy work. These activities not only enhance our academic community and support research and social responsibility goals, but also provide colleagues with opportunities for professional development. Colleagues are therefore encouraged to pursue relevant external work and collaborations.
These new policies aim to make the processes and expectations clearer for everyone involved.
Work for Outside Bodies Policy
Working with outside bodies means participating in professional activities outside of your University roles - such as advising a company, charity, or public body. This could include serving on boards, providing expert advice, or taking on freelance work.
Establishing clear protocols and guidance is essential to ensure compliance with our Statutes and Financial Regulations and to effectively address any potential conflicts of interest.
The new Work for Outside Bodies Policy provides a structured framework to manage such risks and help manage potential conflicts of interest.
The Policy:
- Clarifies what constitutes “Work for Outside Bodies” and specifies the types of activities that fall within the policy’s remit.
- Clarifies that all Grade 6+ employees must disclose any “Work for Outside Bodies" to their Head of Department/Division (or the appropriate authoriser as defined in the policy) and through the updated and improved Register of Interests process before commencing such activities.
- Outlines the types of outside work that also require specific formal approval, the correct approval process, and employees’ ongoing obligations when conducting outside work.
- For employees in Grades 1–5, the policy applies only if:
*The outside work may impact their ability to fulfil their University role, and/or
*The work creates a potential, perceived, or actual conflict of interest.
If you're thinking about starting or continuing external work, you are required to read the new policy and follow the steps in the updated Register of Interests process. Guidance is also available to support you.
If you are currently engaged in external work, you need to declare it now and seek approval if needed, ensuring you're aligned with the new process.
University Consultancy Policy
University consultancy is an essential part of the University’s knowledge exchange efforts, enabling employees to offer expert advice to external clients across public, private and charitable sectors, while increasing their experience and involvement in real world challenges.
We are pleased to launch the new University Consultancy Policy, which provides clear guidelines for conducting University Consultancy activities.
The policy also outlines how the University will support this work in alignment with professional standards.This policy should be read in conjunction with the Consultancy Guidance and Process and colleagues are encouraged to contact the Consultancy Services Team and visit the Consultancy StaffNet pages for further support on undertaking University Consultancy.