Council is the governing body of the University, whilst Senate is the supreme academic authority of the University. The Vice-Chancellor is supported and advised by a team of senior leaders who together form the University Executive Board.

Council comprises 18 members, with a lay majority who come from outside the University, bringing skills and experience from other sectors. The Vice-Chancellor is also a member of Council, as are members of University staff and two elected officers from the Students' Union.

Senate's membership and duties are detailed in Sections 18 and 19 of the Statutes. They are responsible for the academic work of the University, consistent with Article 13 of the Charter, and in particular for the strategic development of the academic activities of the University and for the approval of policies.

Sub Committees consider and deliver more detailed work on executive, support, resource and academic matters. Some are statutory committees which are required to ensure the University is legally compliant.

The University Executive Board (UEB) advises and supports the Vice-Chancellor and President in the discharge of their responsibility to Council for maintaining and promoting the good order of the University.