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A vice-chancellor in a post-92 university says his institution has a job evaluation scheme of "such stupefying complexity" that it ensures equal pay for work of equal value (Letters, October 7). He also says that professorial title is an academic honour and not a salary grade at the university.

Grades reflect the demand level of the post or the different academic roles that make up the post. These will include the need for "significant academic contributions". The Higher Education Role Analysis system, which is used by a number of universities for job evaluation, bears this out.

It would appear that some universities consider an honorary title an appropriate substitute for pay recognised through grade structures. This is one of the main barriers to equal pay for work of equal value in the sector.

At Gloucestershire University, the management and Natfhe negotiated professorial-level posts alongside management posts, in line with the pre-92 universities, some years ago.

Sandra Jeans
Branch chair,
Natfhe Gloucestershire University