A Globally Renowned Irish University
Engaged under the sponsorship of the Corporate Secretary, we were tasked with reviewing and redesigning student governance across the institution — spanning every student group and representative body university-wide.
A Complex Landscape Without Clear Accountability
The university's network of student groups had grown complex and hard to oversee. Three core gaps required urgent attention:
- No decision or delegation framework. Governance structures, roles and responsibilities were poorly defined across the institution.
- Unclear relationships. The relationship between the university and its student groups lacked the clarity needed for effective oversight.
- Accountability and reputational risk. Gaps in governance were creating increasing reputational exposure for the institution.
People-Centred Programme Management
We led an intensive programme that placed student groups at the heart of the change — structured across three interconnected phases.
Change Management & Stakeholder Engagement
A robust change management plan ensured proactive communication and meaningful opportunities for all stakeholders to be heard throughout the programme.
Comprehensive Current-State Review
We reviewed all student bodies through dedicated workstreams, each accountable for a specific group — ensuring rigour and full institutional coverage.
Co-Designed Future Governance Model
Together with university leaders and student representatives, we co-designed new structures, clarified relationships and maintained alignment throughout.
A Streamlined, Transparent Governance Framework
New Governance Structure
Clearly agreed governance structure supported by standard operating procedures across all student bodies.
Financial Oversight
Clearer financial reporting requirements established, delivering significantly improved institutional accountability.
Defined Roles & Responsibilities
Roles and responsibilities explicitly defined across all representative bodies, eliminating ambiguity at every level.
Endorsed Delegation Framework
A new delegation framework formally endorsed — providing a durable foundation for ongoing governance.
Turning a sensitive governance challenge into a collaborative, trusted and sustainable solution — built with the people it serves.