The Council is looking to appoint one local person, independent of the Council’s political groups and with no connection to the Council, to serve on its Audit & Governance Committee.
The Audit & Governance Committee provides challenge and assurance on the Council’s control environment, with a particular focus on risk management, governance and financial matters. Its role is to support the Council in ensuring it is well managed and able to deliver its priorities effectively.
The Committee meets six times a year, usually on a Thursday evening at 6.00pm. As an Independent Member, you will sit alongside elected councillors and provide an informed, objective and independent perspective.
This is a role that carries significant public responsibility and offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the residents of the district. Applicants should have experience of working at a senior level within an organisation, or have other relevant experience that would provide similar insights. Experience in financial management, accountancy, auditing or managing large budgets would be advantageous, but is not essential.
You will be appointed for an initial four-year term, with the possibility of an extension of up to nine months to align with the municipal cycle.
In order to be eligible to apply for the position, applicants must not:
• Be a councillor or officer of the Council or have been so in the preceding five years prior to appointment.
• Be related to, or a close friend of, any councillor or officer of West Oxfordshire District Council.
• Have been convicted of any offence.
• Be an undischarged bankrupt.
• Have significant business dealings with the Council.
• Have a formal connection with any political group.
• Have a proven history of vexatious and/or frivolous complaints against West Oxfordshire District Council.
• Be in arrears with council tax, business rates or have other outstanding debts owing to the Council.
Applicants must also not hold a significant position within an organisation that receives grant funding or support from West Oxfordshire District Council.
There is an allowance of £75 per meeting for up to 4 hours and £150 per meeting for more than 4 hours in addition to being entitled to travel and subsistence expenses for the role.
You will need…
• experience of working in a medium / large organisation at a senior level or other experience which would give similar benefits.
• ability to understand complex issues and the importance of accountability and probity in public life
• an ability to demonstrate integrity and discretion
• effective interpersonal skills
• An understanding of the priorities, objectives and key activities of the Council and current major initiative and significant issues for the Council
For more information about this role please see the Person Specification.