Signing University Contracts Policy

Title

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Policy on Signing University Contracts

Introduction

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish in writing which officials at the University are authorized to sign University contracts. The University's Board of Trustees has delegated to the Chancellor the authority to sign contracts for the University and has authorized the Chancellor to delegate that authority to other University employees.

Scope of Applicability

This policy applies to all contracts where the University, or the University on behalf of a University unit, is a party to a contract (whether referred to as a contract, agreement, memorandum of understanding, or letter agreement, etc.).

Policy

Policy Statement

It is University policy that only those individuals holding the positions listed on the attached delegation chart are authorized to sign University contracts. In some instances, as noted on the chart, this delegated authority may be further delegated. Those delegations are not reflected on the chart.

The University may declare any contract purportedly signed on behalf of the University to be null and void if the individual who signed the contract does not possess delegated signatory authority. Documents signed by unauthorized individuals may result in unintended and unnecessary liability for the individual. If an individual believes he or she needs a signature delegation, please contact the Office of University Counsel. Except as may be provided in a specific delegation, it is University policy that contracts must be reviewed by an attorney in the Office of University Counsel prior to execution.

Exceptions

This policy does not apply to EHRA Non-Faculty and Faculty appointment letters.

Related Requirements

External Regulations

References

Signature Delegation Chart - See "Attachments" section.

Contact Information

Policy Contact

Questions about this policy may be addressed to any attorney on the Office of University Counsel website or by calling 919-962-1219.

Important Dates

Effective Date and title of Approver:

Approved on April 9, 2013 by the Chancellor and Chancellor's Cabinet