Chair of Audit and Risk Commitee and Council Member in London

About the Organisation: The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) employs over 1,000 staff across its Camden campus in London and its modern Hawkshead campus in rural Hertfordshire. It has a long-standing reputation for innovation and leadership in veterinary medicine and science. The RVC is committed to advancing the health and welfare of both animals and humans. Professionalism, care and compassion underpin its work, alongside a strong focus on inclusion, equality of opportunity and respect for diversity across its staff and student community. The organisation is entering an important new phase, with the rollout of its strategic plan and delivery of key initiatives to support long-term sustainability and growth. This includes the development of a new small animal hospital at the Hawkshead campus.

The Opportunity: The Council is the Governing Body of the Royal Veterinary College (RVC). Independent Members form the majority of Council and act in a role comparable to both Non-Executive Directors and Charity Trustees. The RVC is seeking to appoint an Independent Member of Council who will also serve as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. This is a key governance role, providing assurance to Council on risk management, internal control and governance across the institution. The Chair must be an independent Council member, appointed by Council, and is expected to lead the Committee with independence, authority and sound judgement.

Key Responsibilities: We are seeking an outstanding individual to join the RVC Council at a pivotal time as we launch our new strategic plan and work closely with the Senior Executive Team. Independent Members play a key role in supporting the RVC’s mission in an increasingly complex external environment, with growing responsibilities for governance, reporting and compliance. The role includes:

• Working with the Chair and Council to shape and oversee the delivery of the RVC’s strategy
• Monitoring performance against key objectives and KPIs
• Ensuring compliance with legal, financial and regulatory obligations as a registered charity and Office for Students-registered provider
• Contributing senior-level insight to Council discussions and decision-making
• Providing advice and constructive challenge to the Senior Executive Team
• Supporting strong relationships with key stakeholders
• Engaging actively with the RVC community and its work
• Acting as an ambassador for the RVC

The Successful Candidate: Senior-level experience in finance, accounting or audit, with the credibility to lead discussions on financial reporting, internal controls, risk frameworks and audit matters. Professional accounting qualification (e.g. ICAEW, ICAS, ACCA or equivalent) strongly preferred. Significant board or committee experience within complex organisations, with a clear understanding of governance versus executive management. Proven experience chairing or contributing to audit, risk, assurance or regulatory committees. Strong expertise in risk management across strategic, operational, financial, regulatory and reputational domains. Ability to analyse and interpret complex information and provide clear, balanced judgement.

Whats on offer: Council normally meets four times per year, with additional briefing and informal sessions. The Audit and Risk Committee meets three to four times per year, with preparation and engagement outside meetings as required. The total expected time commitment for this combined role is approximately 10–12 days per year. Independent Members may serve for up to three terms of three years, subject to satisfactory performance and mutual agreement.