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- Tasks: Join the Audit & Governance Committee to provide independent advice and support on governance and finance.
- Company: St Helens Council is dedicated to good governance and community service.
- Benefits: Earn £500 per year for attending meetings and contributing your expertise.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local governance while enhancing your skills and network.
- Qualifications: Must be politically neutral with a solid understanding of public sector finance and governance.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with only 4 evening meetings per year; training provided.
St. Helens Council is looking for a citizen with a good understanding of public sector finance, governance and audit to be co-opted as an Independent Member to its Audit & Governance Committee. The Committee is a key component of the Council’s corporate governance. The Committee provides independent assurance and high-level focus on risk management, governance, financial controls, annual accounts and the work of internal and external audit.
The role of a co-opted Independent Member would undertake an independent, non-voting role on the Committee, providing external challenge, support and advice, promote good governance and to bring additional knowledge and expertise to the Committee and reinforce its political neutrality and independence.
The appointment will ensure that the Council satisfies the requirements of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance Accountants (CIPFA) Audit Committees, Practical Guidance for Local Authorities and Police (2022 edition) and the Terms of Reference for the Committee, as well as supporting the outcomes from the Redmond Independent Review into the Oversight of Local Audit and the Transparency of Local Authority Financial Reporting, to sustain good governance.
EligibilityYou should be politically neutral and be able to demonstrate objectivity and independence in order to sit as an Independent Member on the Committee. You should not:
- be active in local or national politics
- be a member of a political party or pressure group
- have had significant previous dealings with the Council which may compromise your impartiality
- have any personal, legal or contractual relationship with the Council (including employees or councillors or former staff), or any other relationship/activity which might represent a conflict of interest.
The following persons cannot be an independent member:
- A serving councillor or local government officer
- Former officers or elected members of St Helens Council within the previous 5 years
The appointment will be for a fixed term of up to 3 years, subject to approval by a meeting of full Council. Prior to joining the Committee, induction training will be provided.
As an independent member, you will be required to sign an undertaking to abide by the Council’s Code of Conduct for Elected & Co-Opted Members, which sets out standards of behaviour expected from all members. You will also be required to complete a Register of Interests form on an annual basis and keep this updated.
The estimated time commitment required to undertake the role will vary, on average it would involve attendance at 4 scheduled evening committee meetings per municipal year and associated reading of the agenda papers, plus attendance at training.
A co-optee allowance of £500.00 remuneration per year is payable for this role.
If you are interested in applying for this position, please send a supporting application and CV in writing detailing your skills, knowledge and experience applicable to the role. Please include the contact details of two referees.
For further details and to register your interest please click "Apply via our website". If successfully shortlisted, you will be invited to take part in an interview with a panel comprising the Chair of Audit & Governance Committee and officers during week commencing 28 April 2025.
Please note we reserve the right to close the advert early should we receive a sufficient number of applications and encourage you to apply early, to avoid disappointment.
St Helens Council is a Disability Confident Leader. This means that the Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within the interview/selection process.
Equality & Diversity St Helens Borough Council respects and values the individuality that every employee brings. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. Further information about Equality & Diversity at St Helens Borough Council can be found on our website.
St Helens Borough Council is a Disability Confident Leader. Disability Confident Leader lead the way in helping to take action that changes attitudes, behaviours, and cultures for the better.
Independent Member of St Helens Council\'s Audit & Governance Committee employer: St Helens Council
Contact Detail:
St Helens Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Member of St Helens Council\'s Audit & Governance Committee
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the Audit & Governance Committee. Understanding their role in risk management and financial controls will help you articulate how your skills align with their needs during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of similar committees to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information on what the committee values and how you can position yourself as a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your understanding of public sector finance and governance. Brush up on recent developments in local authority financial reporting and audit practices, as this knowledge will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your objectivity and independence. Think of examples from your past experiences where you provided unbiased advice or support, as this will be crucial in proving your suitability for the independent member role.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Member of St Helens Council\'s Audit & Governance Committee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, ensure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of an Independent Member on the Audit & Governance Committee. Familiarise yourself with public sector finance, governance, and audit principles.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise your understanding of governance and financial controls, as well as any previous experience in similar roles or committees.
Write a Compelling Supporting Application: In your supporting application, clearly articulate your skills, knowledge, and experience that make you suitable for the position. Be specific about how you can contribute to the Committee's objectives and promote good governance.
Provide Strong References: Include the contact details of two referees who can vouch for your qualifications and character. Choose individuals who are familiar with your professional background and can speak to your objectivity and independence.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Helens Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of an Independent Member on the Audit & Governance Committee. Familiarise yourself with public sector finance, governance, and audit processes, as these will be key topics during your interview.
✨Demonstrate Objectivity
Since political neutrality is crucial for this role, be prepared to discuss how you maintain objectivity and independence in your decision-making. Share examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to provide unbiased advice and support.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and your approach to governance challenges. Think about potential issues the committee might face and how you would address them, showcasing your analytical skills and knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight any relevant experience you have in governance, finance, or audit. Be ready to discuss how your background can contribute to the committee's objectives and reinforce its independence, ensuring you align your skills with the council's needs.
