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RSS Governance Review

The RSS is undertaking a review of its governance. Below, we provide context for the decision to initiate the review, an outline of the processes we will undertake, and information about how we will keep members informed.

Why? 

The Charity Governance Code highlights that a charity is best placed to achieve its ambitions and aims if it has effective governance and the right leadership structures. Skilled and capable trustees will help a charity attract resources and put them to best use. Good governance enables and supports a charity’s compliance with relevant legislation and regulation. It also promotes attitudes and a culture where everything works towards fulfilling the charity’s vision. 

RSS governance is enshrined in our Royal Charter and Byelaws, and underpinned by our regulations, which have provided a sure footing for governance of the Society for almost 200 years. The Society last undertook a review of governance in 2019, which had a limited scope and resulted in some minor changes. The code also recommends that governance is regularly reviewed, and Council agreed in March 2025 that a review should be undertaken to ensure that our governance supports the delivery principle set out in our 2024 Strategy: Our governance structures and processes are fit for purpose, efficient and inclusive.  

How? 

The governance review is being led by a dedicated working group of RSS fellows, who will oversee the process, design future solutions and ensure that the membership is updated and appropriately engaged throughout. 

Members

RSS President – John Aston (Chair) 
Tricia Dodd – Honorary Officer for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Clare Morris – Vice President for Professional Affairs, Council representative 
Steven Gilmour – Honorary Officer for Journals, Council representative 
David Hand – Past-president 

The Society is grateful for advice and support from Lori Frecker, Learned and Professional Societies Liaison Officer at the Foundation for Science and Technology, who has agreed to share her knowledge on governance at learned societies to aid the review and make introductions to other organisations to share experience. 

Membership involvement  
Members will be kept updated on the progress of the review as it develops. This includes: 

  • updates via email and member newsletters at key stages
  • update and Q&A at the AGM (held at our conference in Edinburgh) 
  • ​update and Q&A in a dedicated webinar later this year 

Depending on the nature of any changes recommended by Council, fellows may be asked to vote on proposed changes to our Bylaws as described in our Charter. Any such changes would then need the approval of Privy Council. 

When? 

The key steps include: 

  • March 2025 – Council approve initiation  
  • June 2025 – Council approve detailed scope  
  • September 2025 – RSS AGM and member engagement webinar 
  • November 2025 – Working group presentation to Council, discussion of foundational issues and solutions  
  • March 2026 – Council consider final recommendations  
  • April 2026 or later, as required – RSS general meeting and membership vote, seek Privy Council permission to make the changes.