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- Tasks: Join our Audit Committee to provide independent assurance and scrutiny of the Council's performance.
- Company: South Tyneside Council, committed to high standards and ethics in public life.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with a £905 allowance and travel expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance and contribute your expertise to important discussions.
- Qualifications: Skills in governance, objectivity, and experience in relevant fields required.
- Other info: Interviews scheduled for April 2026; apply by 2nd April 2026.
SOUTH TYNESIDE COUNCIL AUDIT COMMITTEE Applications are invited from people with skills, experience and knowledge which can enhance and support our Audit Committee, a cornerstone of our governance and assurance framework. We are seeking to appoint two Co-opted (Independent) Members to the Audit Committee.
The Audit Committee is an advisory committee of the Council and provides:
- Independent assurance of the Council’s risk management framework and the associated control environment.
- Independent scrutiny of the Council’s financial and non-financial performance to assess the extent to which it exposes the Council to risk and weakens the control environment.
- Oversees the Council’s financial reporting process.
The full terms of reference for Audit Committee can be found in the Council’s Constitution which is available on our website. Co-opted (Independent) Members are appointed to bring an injection of external views and approach to discussions, bring additional knowledge and expertise within areas of responsibility, reinforce the political neutrality and independence of the committee, and maintain continuity of committee membership where membership is affected by the electoral cycle.
Interested candidates will be expected to demonstrate independence of mind, objectivity and impartiality, contribute proactive, proportionate, independent thought and provide balanced advice. They should also have up-to-date skills, knowledge and experience within at least one of the fields covered within the Audit Committee, an understanding of local governance and a commitment to high standards and ethics in public life.
Please note that you cannot be appointed as a Co-opted (Independent) Member if you have any personal, legal or contractual relationship with the Council (including employees or Members or former staff), or any other relationship/activity which might represent a conflict of interest or perceived conflict of interest. Additionally, you must not be, nor during the last five years have been:
- A Member, Co-opted Member or officer of South Tyneside Council or South Tyneside Homes.
- Related to, or a close friend of, any Member, co-opted Member or employee of South Tyneside Council or South Tyneside Homes.
These are largely voluntary roles, but a moderate allowance (currently £905 per annum) is payable to each independent member and reasonable travel and subsistence expenses may also be claimed. It is anticipated that interviews will take place w/c 20th April 2026.
To apply for the position of Co-opted (Independent) Member, please complete the application form within the Recruitment Pack which is saved in "Supporting Documents" and return this to Stuart Reid, Director of Business and Resources, South Tyneside Council, Town Hall and Civic Offices, Westoe Road, South Shields, NE33 2RL or email stuart.reid@southtyneside.gov.uk by noon on Thursday 2nd April 2026.
Co-opted (Independent) Members to the Audit Committee x 2 Posts in South Shields employer: South Tyneside Council
Contact Detail:
South Tyneside Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Co-opted (Independent) Members to the Audit Committee x 2 Posts in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to local governance or audit committees. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about opportunities and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Council’s risk management framework. Show us you understand the importance of independent scrutiny and how it impacts financial performance.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your independence of mind during interviews. We want to see that you can provide balanced advice and contribute proactive thoughts without any bias.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Audit Committee and contributing to high standards in public life.
We think you need these skills to ace Co-opted (Independent) Members to the Audit Committee x 2 Posts in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Make sure you understand the role and responsibilities of the Audit Committee. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with what they’re looking for. We want to see how you can bring that independent perspective to the table!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application form, keep your answers straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your thoughts are easy to follow. This helps us see your thought process clearly!
Show Your Independence: It’s crucial to demonstrate your objectivity and impartiality in your application. Share examples from your past where you’ve provided balanced advice or made decisions without bias. We’re looking for that independent mindset!
Submit Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us smoothly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary documents and details there to help you along the way.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Tyneside Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key responsibilities of the Audit Committee. Understand risk management, financial performance, and local governance. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Your Independence
Since this role requires impartiality, be prepared to demonstrate your independence of mind. Think of examples from your past where you've provided balanced advice or made decisions without bias. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can contribute effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the Council's current challenges or how they measure the effectiveness of the Audit Committee. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be ready to discuss your skills and experiences that align with the committee's needs. Whether it's your knowledge of financial reporting or your understanding of ethics in public life, make sure to connect your background to what the committee is looking for.