Ministerial appointments

Generic qualities sought in Ministerial appointees for each TEI[1] Council include:

• previous governance experience
• financial management/business management experience
• strategic management skills
• knowledge of the tertiary education sector
• knowledge of the needs of the community/region in which the TEI serves.

Skills sought for a particular vacancy will depend on the composition of the particular Council and the appropriate skills and attributes specifically required by the Council at the time.

Ministerial appointment process

Vacancies and the current composition of the Council are discussed with each Council Chair with a view to identifying the appropriate skills and attributes required by the Council.

Councils are also invited to make nominations for Ministerial appointments. Expressions of interest from individuals are also often made from outside sources. The Minister of Education usually consults with his/her associates, colleagues and/or constituents to find the most suitable appointee for a vacant position. We will also provide advice to the Minister.

In the case of Ministerial appointees whose term is nearing expiry, we will determine if the incumbent is prepared to accept reappointment and whether the Council will support the reappointment. We then advise the Minister at least 30 days prior to the completion of the term of office. The Council must also outline the specific reasons for any reappointment as there can be no expectation on the part of incumbents that they will be automatically reappointed. This practice follows the guidelines for board appointments issued by the State Services Commission.

Nominations for a Council appointment must be accompanied by:

• a current curriculum vitae, and
• an assurance that the nominee is prepared to accept a position on the Council concerned.

Nominations should be forwarded to:
Minister for Tertiary Education
Parliament Buildings
Wellington 6011

or

The Tertiary Education Commission
PO Box 27-048
Wellington 6141. 

We will undertake an assessment of the relevant skills and experience of the candidates and any potential conflicts of interest that might arise from their appointment. Nominees will generally be interviewed to ascertain their knowledge of the tertiary sector, to identify any previous governance experience that they may have and any potential conflicts of interest that may arise from an appointment.

TEI Council Ministerial appointments and re-appointments are also considered by the Cabinet Committee on Appointments and Honours. Whilst this adds time, it also adds rigour to the process, and enables further consultation to take place, particularly with the Ministers' Cabinet colleagues.

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  Tertiary education institution (TEI) - universities, ITPs and wānanga