Higher education

GGI offers a range of services to support universities as they seek to comply with regulations, adapt to change, and ensure their sustainability in a competitive global market.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) and universities in the UK are navigating an increasingly complex and challenging landscape, driven by regulatory changes, financial pressures, and shifts in student and societal expectations.

The regulatory environment for universities is primarily governed by bodies such as the Office for Students (OfS), the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), and sector-specific frameworks like the Higher Education and Research Act 2017. These frameworks ensure that institutions meet rigorous standards for teaching, research, governance, and financial management.

GGI services for HE institutions

1. Governance reviews and compliance audits: Universities are required to demonstrate robust governance structures that align with regulatory frameworks like the Higher Education Code of Governance, overseen by the Committee of University Chairs (CUC). GGI is often engaged to review governance arrangements, assess the effectiveness of boards and committees, and ensure compliance with the OfS conditions of registration. Independent reviews help universities maintain good governance practices, improve accountability, and ensure transparency, particularly around financial decision-making and risk management.
2. Regulatory compliance and assurance: Universities must meet strict regulatory requirements relating to academic quality, financial sustainability, student protection, and the delivery of value for money. With increasing scrutiny from the OfS, universities need assurance that they are compliant with conditions of registration and can avoid regulatory penalties. GGI can help to audit these compliance areas, develop risk management strategies, and ensure that policies are up to date with the latest sector guidance and legislative changes.
3. Strategic change support: HE institutions face significant pressure to modernise their operations, adapt to shifting student demographics, and develop sustainable financial models. GGI provides strategic change support to help implement new business models, restructure academic programs, streamline operations, and embrace digital transformation.
4. Risk management and financial resilience: The HE sector is increasingly exposed to financial risks due to changing student demand, government funding cuts, and rising operational costs. The financial sustainability of many institutions has come under threat, with some smaller universities and specialised colleges facing potential closure or merger. GGI offers risk management support by conducting financial health checks, scenario planning, and stress-testing financial models.

GGI is well-placed to assist with some of the big issues facing higher education institutions, including:

• financial sustainability amid funding cuts
• governance and leadership accountability
• academic freedom and institutional autonomy
• student experience and satisfaction
• global competition for talent and resources
• regulatory compliance