At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Audit and Risk Committee, ensuring high-quality discussions and effective oversight.
- Company: Join Peabody, a leading housing association with over 160 years of impactful service.
- Benefits: Be part of a mission-driven organisation focused on community and resident well-being.
- Other info: Diverse candidates are encouraged to apply, bringing unique perspectives to our Board.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping the future of housing.
- Qualifications: Strong background in audit, risk, finance, or assurance; board-level experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
This job post will be advertised for a minimum period of two weeks on LinkedIn. After this time please apply directly to https://joinpeabodyboard.com/ until the closing date of 8th June 2026.
Peabody is one of the UK’s largest and most established housing associations, with a history spanning more than 160 years. Today, we serve over 220,000 residents across London and the South East, providing homes, services and support that make a real difference to people’s lives. Our purpose is rooted in creating quality homes, stronger neighbourhoods and opportunities for people to thrive, and this purpose shapes every decision we make.
As part of planned Board succession, we are seeking to appoint a new Chair of Audit and Risk Committee to join the Peabody Board at an important point in our development. This appointment combines the responsibilities of a Board member with the leadership of a key Board committee. The role requires a confident and thoughtful chair, able to set the tone for high‑quality discussion, encourage constructive challenge and ensure that assurance is proportionate, insightful and forward‑looking.
As a member of the Peabody Board, you will share collective responsibility for the organisation’s long‑term success, culture and reputation. Board members are expected to work collaboratively, exercise independent judgement and uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability. Residents sit at the heart of Peabody’s work, and the Board is committed to ensuring that resident safety, experience and outcomes are reflected in Board priorities and decision‑making.
We welcome applications from candidates who have built their careers in customer‑facing organisations across a range of sectors, including those with experience in housing, infrastructure, regulated utilities, financial services, public services, local or central government, healthcare, care and support or charitable and not‑for‑profit organisations, as well as other large, complex environments. We also welcome applications from individuals from the private sector who bring a strong understanding of regulation, public accountability and risk, and who can apply this experience in a values‑led organisation with a clear social purpose.
We are seeking an individual with strong professional credibility in audit, risk, finance or assurance, and experience of operating effectively at board or committee level in complex organisations. You will bring sound judgement, independence of thought and the personal authority to chair with confidence, balancing rigorous scrutiny with collaboration and shared purpose. While prior experience chairing an audit or risk committee, or familiarity with the housing or social sector, would be welcomed, this is not essential.
Peabody is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion at Board and organisational level, and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds who bring diverse perspectives and lived experience.
If you are interested in finding out more, please click Apply for further information. Alternatively, if you would welcome a confidential conversation with one of our advisors, please contact Delicia Coutinho on 07741 264 892.
Chair of Audit and Risk employer: GatenbySanderson
Peabody is an exceptional employer, dedicated to creating quality homes and stronger neighbourhoods while prioritising the well-being of over 220,000 residents across London and the South East. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, Peabody fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth and values diverse perspectives. Joining the Board as Chair of Audit and Risk offers a unique opportunity to lead impactful discussions and contribute to the organisation's long-term success in a meaningful way.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of Audit and Risk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing and public sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role or even a referral. Don’t be shy; we all know it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Peabody’s values and recent initiatives. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in their mission. Jot down how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around resident safety and community impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership style! As a potential Chair of Audit and Risk, you’ll need to demonstrate confidence and collaborative spirit. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your approach to leading discussions and encouraging constructive challenges.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining Peabody and contributing to their mission of making a difference in people’s lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of Audit and Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Peabody is all about creating quality homes and supporting residents, so make sure your application reflects that ethos. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission!
Be Authentic:We want to hear your unique voice! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your journey, your values, and what drives you to apply for the Chair of Audit and Risk position. Authenticity goes a long way!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to emphasise any experience you have in audit, risk, or finance, especially in complex organisations. We’re looking for someone with strong professional credibility, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements and how they relate to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Once you’ve polished your application, head over to our website to submit it. Applying directly through https://joinpeabodyboard.com/ ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Peabody's mission and values. Understand their history and current projects, especially around audit and risk. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Chair of Audit and Risk, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've led discussions, encouraged constructive challenges, and ensured high-quality outcomes in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to set the right tone for the committee.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Ask about their current challenges in audit and risk or how they envision the future of the Board. This shows your strategic thinking and engagement.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Integrity
Peabody values collaboration and integrity highly. Be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams and upheld ethical standards in your past experiences. Share stories that illustrate your commitment to these values, as they are key to the Board's success.
