At a Glance
- Tasks: Help the Council manage governance and provide independent assurance on financial processes.
- Company: Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, committed to effective governance.
- Benefits: Modest remuneration, training provided, and opportunity to influence local governance.
- Other info: Meetings six times a year with ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or governance, ideally within a large organisation.
About the Opportunity
Would you like to help the Council manage its governance effectively? Barnsley Council is looking to appoint a member of the public to serve as an Independent Member on the Audit and Governance Committee. The Committee consists of nine members: four Council Members and five independent lay members.
Expressions of Interest
Expressions of interest are invited from individuals who have financial or governance experience, ideally within a large organisation, to join the Audit and Governance Committee. It is particularly important to have an appreciation and understanding of the financial and service pressures currently facing the Council, as well as change programmes required to deal with government reforms and the potential impact on services provided to residents of the Borough.
Role Responsibilities
The role of the Audit and Governance Committee is to provide independent assurance to the Council regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the Authority’s systems of governance, incorporating internal control and risk management arrangements, and to oversee the statutory financial reporting process. This assurance is primarily informed through the consideration of the work of the Authority’s internal and external auditors and from reports provided by the Senior Management Team. The Committee normally meets six times a year, with meetings lasting approximately two hours. Before each meeting, an hour session is dedicated to training and awareness, where presentations and updates are provided on pertinent issues. There is also an annual development meeting scheduled every October.
Appointment Details
The term of appointment is for a maximum of two four‑year terms. Training is provided upon commencement and regularly throughout the year. The role carries a modest remuneration of £1,362 per annum.
Independent Member of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s Audit and Governance Committee employer: Barnsley Council
Barnsley Council is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in local governance. With a strong commitment to professional development, the Council offers regular training sessions and opportunities for growth within its Audit and Governance Committee. Working in Barnsley not only allows you to contribute to the community but also provides a supportive environment where your expertise in financial and governance matters is valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Member of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s Audit and Governance Committee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your circle who have experience with governance or local councils. They might have insider tips or even know someone on the committee, which could give you a leg up.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your financial knowledge! Since this role requires an understanding of financial pressures, make sure you're familiar with basic financial principles and current issues facing local councils. It’ll help you stand out in discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by knowing the Council’s recent initiatives and challenges. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also invested in the community and its governance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to contribute to local governance.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Member of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s Audit and Governance Committee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any financial or governance experience you have. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples from your past.
Understand the Council's Challenges:Take some time to research the current financial and service pressures facing Barnsley Council. We appreciate candidates who demonstrate an understanding of these issues in their application, as it shows you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We love clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly grasp your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your expression of interest and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Know Your Governance Basics
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of governance and financial management. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the Audit and Governance Committee, as well as the current challenges facing Barnsley Council. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you genuinely understand its importance.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in financial or governance roles, especially within large organisations. Think of specific examples where you've contributed to governance improvements or managed financial pressures. This will help demonstrate your capability to provide independent assurance to the Council.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on the latest news regarding Barnsley Council and any government reforms that may impact local services. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will highlight your proactive approach and commitment to understanding the context in which the Council operates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training provided, the types of reports you'll be reviewing, or how the Committee measures its effectiveness. Asking questions shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
