At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Audit & Risk Committee, ensuring robust financial oversight and governance.
- Company: Alliance Homes, a community-focused housing provider in the West of England.
- Benefits: Influence at Board level and make a meaningful impact on communities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive Board committed to better decision-making through varied perspectives.
- Why this job: Shape strategy and strengthen communities while navigating real-world complexities.
- Qualifications: Recognised financial qualification and senior-level finance experience required.
Portishead, North Somerset (hybrid) £11,000 per annum Fixed Term - Part Time
Lead Assurance. Shape Strategy. Strengthen Communities.
Alliance Homes is a community-based housing provider serving the West of England. We own and manage more than 7,000 homes and deliver services to nearly 12,000 customers, supported by around 400 colleagues. We are financially resilient, well governed and ambitious for the future, focused on delivering safe, secure and affordable homes while remaining responsive to a fast-evolving operating and regulatory environment.
We are seeking a Chair for our Audit & Risk Committee to join our Board. At a time of increasing regulatory scrutiny and financial complexity, this role will be instrumental in helping us remain ambitious, resilient and accountable. This is a pivotal governance role with significant influence, offering the opportunity to shape financial oversight, risk management and assurance in a purpose-led organisation that is deeply committed to its customers and communities.
The Opportunity
As Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee, you will provide independent leadership and assurance to the Board across financial reporting, internal control, risk management and audit. Working closely with fellow Board members and the Executive team, you will:
- Lead a high-performing Audit & Risk Committee, ensuring robust oversight and effective governance
- Provide clarity and assurance on financial integrity, controls and regulatory compliance
- Oversee risk in a dynamic environment—balancing ambition with careful decision-making
- Bring constructive challenge and independent judgement at Board level
- Support strategic discussions on growth, treasury, investment and long-term sustainability
You will play a central role in ensuring Alliance Homes continues to operate with transparency, accountability and strong governance, while remaining focused on delivering for customers.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking an experienced and credible leader who combines technical expertise with sound judgement and a collaborative approach. You will bring:
- A recognised financial qualification (ACA) and senior-level finance experience
- Strong understanding of audit, risk, internal controls and assurance frameworks
- A track record of operating effectively in Board or Committee environments
- The confidence and presence to support and challenge constructively
- Commercial acumen and the ability to navigate complex, regulated environments
- An ability to understand and engage well with our customers.
We welcome candidates with experience in social housing, a similar sector, or any highly regulated environment. While social housing experience is not essential, we highly value fresh perspectives, independent thinking, and transferable governance expertise.
Just as important is cultural alignment - our A-Game standards define how we work at Alliance, helping us stay aligned, make decisions with confidence and continuously improve our performance. They define how we deliver our strategy:
- We are all about the Customer
- We are one team
- We are easy to do business with
- We are striving for excellence
- We are forward thinking
Why Join Alliance Homes?
- Make a meaningful impact—help shape an organisation that directly improves lives and communities
- Influence at Board level—play a key role in financial stewardship and strategic decision-making
- Bring your expertise to a purpose-led organisation navigating real-world complexity and change
- Work with a committed, high-performing Board and Executive team
- Contribute to the future of housing at a time when governance, risk and assurance have never been more important
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals from under-represented backgrounds and those with lived experience of social housing. We believe better decisions are made through diversity of thought, background and perspective. As a signatory to the National Housing Federation Chairs’ Challenge, we are committed to open, transparent and inclusive recruitment.
Time Commitment
- Board meetings: quarterly
- Audit & Risk Committee: quarterly
- Strategy/development sessions: up to 4 per year
Apply Now (using the link at the top of the page)
Closing Date: 24th August 2026
Interviews: 21st September 2026
Audit and Risk Committee Chair (Non-Executive Director) in Portishead employer: Alliance Homes Group
Alliance Homes Group is an exceptional employer that values its employees by fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture in the vibrant community of Portishead. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers while enjoying generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave and private medical insurance. Joining our team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Audit and Risk Committee Chair (Non-Executive Director) in Portishead
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We think you need these skills to ace Audit and Risk Committee Chair (Non-Executive Director) in Portishead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Public Service Passion:When applying for a part-time role in the government or public sector, it's vital to express your enthusiasm for public service. Share why you’re interested in contributing to Alliance Homes Group and how your values align with their mission. We love to see candidates who really care about making a difference!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail any previous volunteer work, internships, or jobs that demonstrate your commitment to public service. This is important in the government sector! If you've been involved in community projects or have relevant academic courses, bring those into your CV to stand out.
Tailor Your CV for Public Sector Standards:In the public sector, it’s common to focus on your skills and experiences that align specifically with the role. Ensure your CV includes clear examples of how your background fits the responsibilities outlined in the job posting for Audit and Risk Committee Chair (Non-Executive Director) at Alliance Homes Group. Use bullet points for clarity—it's all about making it easy for the hiring team!
Keep It Professional, But Personal:While we want you to be personable, don’t shy away from a formal tone in your cover letter. Share your motivations and what you hope to learn in this part-time role at Alliance Homes Group. It’s a balance of showing who you are while respecting the formal nature of the public sector!
How to prepare for a job interview at Alliance Homes Group
✨Show Your Commitment to Public Service
Part-time roles in the government or public sector often attract candidates who are passionate about making a difference. Let's highlight your dedication to public service during the interview. Be prepared to discuss any volunteer work or projects that showcase your commitment to the community and alignment with the mission of Alliance Homes Group.
✨Familiarity with Policy and Regulation
Understanding government policies and regulations is crucial in this field. Brush up on relevant laws or initiatives that impact the role you're applying for. We can also prep you for scenario-based questions where you might have to demonstrate how you'd navigate specific public issues relevant to Audit and Risk Committee Chair (Non-Executive Director).
✨Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Whether it’s communication, research, or analytical skills, make sure to relate your experience to the competencies sought by Alliance Homes Group. Discuss how your part-time availability complements your studies or other commitments, showing that you are ready to juggle responsibilities while bringing valuable skills to the table.
✨Prepare for Group Interviews
Public sector roles often involve teamwork, so you might find yourself in a group interview setting. We should practice how to effectively engage with others during the interview while also demonstrating your individual contributions. Show that you’re a team player, ready to collaborate for the greater good!