It is proposed that ACCESS should have a constitution facilitated via a Memorandum of Agreement amongst the collaborating institutions that sets out the way it functions and coordinates activities.  A draft document is available and defines the following:

Governance Board (GB)
This establishes ACCESS as a not-for-profit centre under the CSIR.The GB will receive and discuss scientific programmes and business plans presented from time to time by the ACCESS Director. It will meet at least annually to review and evaluate progress towards the fulfilment of ACCESS's declared mission.  The Board has overall responsibility for the annual budget presented by the ACCESS Research Director, who will act as the responsible chief financial officer of the Board.

ACCESS Research Director
The Research Director holds a chair at a collaborating institution (currently the University of Cape Town). The general terms of this position are laid down by the host institution as for any academic post. The Research Director will not be required to undertake substantial teaching or administrative duties for the host institution or ACCESS. Terms of reference for the Chair will include a requirement for distinguished leadership in research in fields relevant to the objectives of ACCESS.