At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide strategic guidance and oversight for the new Local Audit Office.
- Company: Join the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in a transformative role.
- Benefits: Influence public trust and governance while shaping local audit reforms.
- Other info: Engage with stakeholders and promote transparency in public sector governance.
- Why this job: Be part of a critical reform programme that modernises local audit systems.
- Qualifications: Experience as a non-executive director or senior leader in complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is seeking five highly-skilled and experienced Non-Executive Directors to join the Local Audit Office Board. These directors will play a critical role in the establishment and running of the new Local Audit Office, providing independent oversight and strategic guidance to ensure the Office operates with the highest standards of governance and accountability. By leading one of the most ambitious reform programmes in over a decade, the Ministry aims to modernise the local audit system, reduce complexity, improve coordination, and restore transparency and public trust.
Responsibilities
- Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge to the Controller of Local Audit and executive management to support the establishment of the Local Audit Office, delivery milestones, and strategic long‑term direction.
- Contribute to the work of any Local Audit Office sub‑committees and the main Board.
- Provide additional scrutiny, external expertise and discipline to promote transparent decision‑making of the Board and bring insight from your wider experience to inform and shape the strategic thinking.
- Promote the highest standards of governance and accountability in the management of the operations, ensuring consistency with statutory requirements and best practice.
- Support the establishment of the Local Audit Office's key functions at pace to achieve short‑term and medium‑term objectives.
- Actively participate in board meetings and relevant sub‑committees, contributing to informed decision‑making processes.
- Maintain the Board's operational independence while assuring Ministers of effective statutory function delivery in line with government policy.
- Represent the organisation at external events and stakeholder engagements, fostering positive relationships and promoting the organisation's interests.
- Act as an advocate championing the profile of local audit across the broader corporate audit and regulatory landscape.
- Monitor the performance of the executive team and the Office, providing reporting, feedback and guidance as necessary.
- Ensure effective risk management practices, identifying and addressing potential risks.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations and standards, maintaining high levels of corporate governance.
- Provide oversight of the Office's use of resources, challenging and advising decision‑making processes.
Qualifications
- Proven board level experience as a non‑executive director or senior leadership in large and complex public or private sector organisations (UK or overseas).
- Strong knowledge of public sector governance, audit, risk and financial oversight, organisational development, transformation and performance monitoring.
- Excellent strategic thinking and independent, objective judgement, with the ability to assess complex issues, identify key risks and mitigations, and support board decisions that improve accountability and value for money.
- Political astuteness and understanding of local and national government, Parliament and the context of the Office's work and Parliamentary accountability.
- Strong communication, influencing and relationship management skills.
- Strong understanding of the policy and regulatory framework for local financial reporting and local audit, supported by relevant professional qualifications (e.g., accountancy, law, business administration).
- Experience of establishing or working within arm‑sleeve bodies, leading or overseeing regulatory transformation, tackling complex system‑wide issues, holding executives to account and delivering sustainable reforms in the public interest.
Independent Non-Executive Director, Local Audit Office in England employer: Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to influence the future of local audit through strategic oversight and governance. With a commitment to transparency and public trust, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that values independent thought and diverse perspectives, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a pivotal role within the public sector. Joining the Local Audit Office means being part of a transformative initiative that not only enhances accountability but also fosters meaningful engagement with stakeholders across the community.
Contact Details:
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Non-Executive Director, Local Audit Office in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who might have insights or leads on roles like the Independent Non-Executive Director.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of public sector governance and audit practices. We recommend creating a list of potential questions you might face and practising your responses. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to speak with decision-makers, highlight your experience in strategic oversight and risk management. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully navigated complex issues and improved accountability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search and genuinely interested in joining our mission to modernise local audit systems.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Non-Executive Director, Local Audit Office in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Non-Executive Director. We want to see how your skills can contribute to the Local Audit Office's mission and objectives.
Showcase Your Governance Experience:Since this role is all about oversight and accountability, be sure to emphasise your previous board-level experience and any relevant governance roles. We’re looking for evidence of your strategic thinking and decision-making prowess.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Local Audit Office.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public sector governance and audit practices. Familiarise yourself with the latest regulations and standards that apply to local audit offices. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to transparency and accountability.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully contributed to strategic decision-making. Be ready to discuss how you can bring insight and independent judgement to the board, especially in complex situations. This is your chance to shine a light on your ability to assess risks and support informed decisions.
✨Engage with Political Context
Understand the political landscape surrounding local government and audit. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the Ministry's goals for reform and modernisation. Showing that you grasp the nuances of local and national government will set you apart as a candidate who can navigate these waters effectively.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can foster positive relationships with stakeholders and represent the organisation effectively. Prepare to discuss your communication and influencing skills, and how you’ve used them to advocate for organisational interests in the past. This role requires collaboration, so showing you can build rapport is key.
