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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: Moderate allowance, travel expenses covered, and a chance to influence local governance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance while enhancing your skills and experience.
- Qualifications: Skills in audit, risk management, and a commitment to impartiality required.
- Other info: Voluntary role with excellent networking opportunities and a chance to contribute to community.
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 ÂŁ905 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.
Independent Co-Opted Member, Audit Committee 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 Independent Co-Opted Member, Audit Committee in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the local governance scene. Attend events or forums related to audit and finance, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of the Council’s risk management framework. Familiarise yourself with their financial reporting processes and recent performance reviews. This will help you stand out during discussions and show that you’re genuinely interested in contributing.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can bring an independent perspective to the Audit Committee. Jot down examples from your past experiences where you’ve provided balanced advice or made objective decisions. We want to see that independence of mind!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always here to help if you have any questions about the process or need tips on how to make your application shine.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Co-Opted Member, Audit Committee in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Make sure you understand the role and responsibilities of the Audit Committee. Brush up on your knowledge of risk management, financial performance, and local governance. This will help us see that you’re genuinely interested and have the right skills.
Be Yourself: We want to hear your independent thoughts and perspectives! Don’t be afraid to showcase your unique experiences and how they can contribute to the committee. Authenticity goes a long way in making your application stand out.
Follow the Instructions: When filling out the application form, stick to the guidelines provided in the Recruitment Pack. Make sure you submit it by the deadline and send it to the right person. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need there!
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 the risk management framework and financial reporting processes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Your Independence
Demonstrate your ability to think independently and objectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided balanced advice or made decisions without bias. This will highlight your suitability for the independent member role.
✨Understand Local Governance
Familiarise yourself with local governance structures and the specific challenges faced by South Tyneside Council. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and show that you’re committed to high standards in public life.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the current challenges the Audit Committee faces or how they measure success. Asking questions not only shows your interest but also your proactive approach to the role.