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- Tasks: Shape the strategic direction and ensure strong governance at RVC.
- Company: Join the Royal Veterinary College, a leader in veterinary education and innovation.
- Benefits: Contribute to impactful decisions and work with a diverse community.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 10-12 days annually with opportunities for diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Lead audit and risk management while influencing the future of veterinary education.
- Qualifications: Senior-level finance experience and a professional accounting qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is seeking an outstanding individual to join our Council as an Independent Member and to serve as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. This is a key governance role at an important moment for the RVC as we launch our new strategic plan. The University has a dedicated workforce of over 1100 employees based mainly at our Camden campus in London and at our modern and vibrant Hawkshead campus in rural Hertfordshire. The RVC has a unique, rich heritage of innovation and leadership in veterinary medicine and science. We offer world-class undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, and biomedical sciences to a vibrant community of over 2,500 students from more than 70 countries. Our commitment to excellence extends to our CPD programmes and our collaborative, inclusive working culture.
About the Role
As an Independent Member of Council, you will help shape the strategic direction of the RVC, ensure strong governance, and support the Senior Executive Team. You will contribute to performance oversight, legal and financial compliance, stakeholder engagement and advocacy for the RVC’s mission. As Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, you will provide leadership in audit, assurance and risk management. You will set the Committee’s work programme, oversee internal and external audit activity, review key risks, ensure high standards of governance and compliance, and report clearly to Council.
About You
We are looking for someone with:
- Senior-level experience in finance, accounting or audit.
- A recognised professional accounting qualification (strongly preferred).
- Experience operating at board or committee level in complex organisations.
- A strong understanding of risk management and assurance.
- Excellent judgement, communication skills and the ability to provide constructive challenge.
- A collaborative approach and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Interest in higher education or the veterinary sector is desirable, as is experience in regulated or publicly accountable environments. The University particularly welcomes applicants who can help increase the gender and ethnic diversity of our Council.
Time Commitment
Council meets four times per year, and the Audit and Risk Committee meets three to four times per year. The total commitment is approximately 10–12 days annually. Independent Members may serve up to three three-year terms.
We promote equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee & Independent Member of Council in London employer: Royal Veterinary College
Contact Detail:
Royal Veterinary College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee & Independent Member of Council in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary or higher education sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about opportunities and even referrals that could give you the edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the RVC's strategic plan and current challenges. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand the bigger picture and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at the RVC. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee & Independent Member of Council in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see how your skills in finance, audit, or risk management can contribute to the RVC's mission.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, leadership is key. Use your application to demonstrate your experience in guiding teams or committees, and how you've tackled challenges in governance or compliance.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Highlight your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary jargon, making it easy for us to see your fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the RVC!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Veterinary College
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on governance principles, especially in the context of higher education and veterinary sectors. Familiarise yourself with the RVC's strategic plan and how your role as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee can influence it.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your senior-level experience in finance, accounting, or audit. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've operated at board or committee level in complex organisations, highlighting your understanding of risk management and assurance.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. As this role requires excellent judgement and communication skills, think about how you can provide constructive challenge while fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
Demonstrate your commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Share any relevant experiences that showcase how you've contributed to these values in previous roles, as the RVC is keen on increasing diversity within their Council.