The document, one of the first measures of the new Governing Team, sets the acting principles, the transparency criteria and the rules of responsible use of the position for all the people with executive responsibilities linked to the Executive Council.

The Universitat de València approved the Code of Good Governance for the Office of the Principal, a self-regulation instrument aimed at reinforcing the integrity, the transparency, and the quality of the university government. The measure, agreed by the Governing Team at the meeting held on 22 April, and published through the resolution of the Principal Juan Luis Gandía, is one of the first actions launched after the elections for Principal in March, and meets one of the electoral commitments.

According to the Principal, ‘through the approval of this Code of Good Governance, the Universitat de València confirms its commitment to a comprehensive, transparent management aimed at general interest. It is a tool that enhances exemplariness in the practice of public responsibilities, guarantees accountability, and shields institutional neutrality. We want the university community and the society to be sure that the Executive Council acts with exactitude, responsibility, and in full alignment with the values we represent.’

The Code sets the principles, criteria and behavioural patterns that must guide the performance of the Principal, the Vice-Principals, the Office of the General Secretary, the University Head Office, and other responsible people linked to the Executive Council. The text underlines the need to act with integrity, exemplariness, and a focus on general interest, as well as to guarantee active transparency and periodical accountability. Additionally, it forbids using institutional resources for purposes unrelated to the institution, and sets strict rules on conflicts of interest, presents, and relationships with third-parties.

Moreover, the document regulates key aspects of the internal operation, as well as, strategic planning, motivation and traceability of decisions, coordination between areas, and crisis management. The Code also reinforces institutional neutrality in electoral processes and promotes a clear and coherent communication with university community.

The text forecasts a yearly tracking by the Office of the General Secretary staff, and a periodical revision to adapt it to the regulative and organisational evolution. Adherence to the Code will be mandatory for all people assuming executive responsibilities linked to the Office of the Principal, and voluntary for other academic and management positions.

The full text can be read in the following link:
https://links.uv.es/n5rOfA1

The annex can be downloaded in the following link:
https://links.uv.es/SZyCV30