At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Joint Audit Committee to provide independent challenge and support good governance.
- Company: Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with £2,000 annual allowance and expenses covered.
- Other info: Hybrid meetings with ongoing support and training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local policing and community trust.
- Qualifications: No specific experience required; diverse backgrounds valued.
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Avon and Somerset is seeking to recruit a new Independent Member to join its Joint Audit Committee (JAC). We are particularly interested in hearing from people who can act as a constructive critical friend, providing independent challenge, scrutiny and insight to support good governance and continuous improvement across the organisation.
The Joint Audit Committee is an important, independent means of enhancing public trust and confidence in the governance of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and its oversight of policing across Avon and Somerset. The Committee provides assurance, advice and scrutiny on a wide range of issues to help ensure effective and efficient services for local communities.
While financial expertise is welcome, it is only one of several backgrounds we value. We are particularly keen to attract applications from individuals who can bring an independent perspective and strategic thinking gained through experience in areas such as:
- Risk management
- Governance and assurance
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
- Human Resources and Organisational Development
- Customer or service user experience
- Programme and project management
- Digital, technology or IT transformation
- Public, private, voluntary or community sectors
This list is not exhaustive, and we actively encourage applications from people with diverse professional backgrounds and experiences.
What you will do
As a member of the Joint Audit Committee, you will:
- Provide independent challenge and assurance to the OPCC and Chief Constable on governance, risk management and internal controls.
- Review and scrutinise financial and non-financial reports.
- Support effective oversight of internal and external audit activity.
- Assess organisational risks and monitor the effectiveness of mitigation plans.
- Contribute an external perspective to strategic discussions and decision making.
- Act as a trusted critical friend, helping to improve organisational effectiveness and accountability.
What we are looking for
We are looking for people who can:
- Analyse information and ask constructive, probing questions.
- Provide objective and independent scrutiny.
- Demonstrate sound judgement and strategic thinking.
- Communicate effectively and contribute positively in a committee environment.
- Show a commitment to high standards of governance, accountability and public service.
Previous experience of audit committees is not essential. We are interested in the skills, experience and perspectives you can bring.
What we offer
This is a voluntary public appointment that attracts an annual allowance of £2,000 plus reasonable expenses. Committee members are expected to attend 4 to 6 meetings each year, together with reasonable preparation time. Meetings are held on a hybrid basis, with approximately half taking place in person at Police Headquarters and half conducted online. You will receive a full induction and ongoing support and training to help you succeed in the role.
About the OPCC
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner supports the Police and Crime Commissioner in representing the voice of local people, holding the Chief Constable to account, and helping ensure the delivery of an effective and efficient police service across Avon and Somerset. We are looking for people who share our commitment to improving policing, victim support and criminal justice services and who align with our values of Openness, Partnership, Compassion and Courage.
Please refer to the Role Profile for full details of the role and person specification.
Role Details
- Job Type: Part-time voluntary appointment
- Allowance: £2,000 per annum plus expenses
- Location: Hybrid (Police Headquarters and online meetings)
- Commitment: 4 to 6 meetings per year plus preparation time
- Application Deadline: Sunday 11th October 26
- Interview Date: week commencing 9th November 26
Joint Audit Committee Volunteer in Portishead employer: Avon & Somerset Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Avon and Somerset is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values openness, partnership, compassion, and courage. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, access to wellness initiatives, and continuous professional development opportunities, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful improvements in local policing and community safety.
Contact Details:
Avon & Somerset Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Recruitment Team
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