Co-opted Finance, Audit & Risk Board subcommittee member

St Christopher’s is a leading hospice which aspires to a world in which all dying people and those close to them have access to care and support whenever and wherever they need it. We are a high‑profile provider, rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, with a national and international reputation as an innovator in end‑of‑life care and in research and education. This is an exciting time for the charity, as we continue to outperform the sector in terms of our revenue generation; the nature of hospice work and palliative care continues to evolve, creating new demands on our resources and financial capabilities. At this time of growth and evolution for the sector and organisation we are looking to grow our Finance, Audit & Risk Committee with the addition of a co‑opted member.

About you

• Is passionate about the work of St Christopher’s
• Is an experienced, qualified accountant
• Has knowledge and experience of risk and audit committees (as an auditor, executive or committee member)

About the role

As part of the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee, the co‑opted member will help to achieve St Christopher’s strategic ambitions, working with the Executive Team, Trustees and Directors. The co‑opted member will provide guidance and expertise to further the charity’s strategic goals, act as an ambassador for St Christopher’s values and help to make a difference to the people we support and care for.

Responsibilities of co‑opted members

• Demonstrate an ability to analyse complex information, to question, probe and seek clarification in order to come to an independent and unbiased view
• Have a genuine interest in the work of St Christopher’s and end‑of‑life care
• Act as an advocate for St Christopher’s to enhance its reputation
• Promote and demonstrate high standards of ethical behaviour and corporate governance
• Bring relevant expertise and experience
• Spend adequate time preparing for, attending and actively participating in meetings, contributing to debates, providing constructive challenge when appropriate and completing actions as agreed
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive information and the business of the Committee
• Exercise independent judgement, particularly avoiding any personal conflict of interest and ensuring that all relevant business, professional, and other interests are declared
• Understand and respect the relative roles of the Board and the Executive
• Act at all times within the best interests of the charity and comply with the Trustee, Co‑Opted Sub Committee member & Non Executive Director Code of Conduct expectations

Time commitment

• Prepare for and attend a minimum of four Finance, Audit & Risk committee meetings each year (usually online)
• Undertake St Christopher’s induction and mandatory training requirements
• Participate in an annual review meeting with the Chair of the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee
• May be called upon to attend additional meetings to deal with any urgent matters

Conflicts of Interest

• Declare any potential conflicts of interest relevant to their role, e.g. where the individual has an interest in companies that may wish to provide a service to the organisation
• Take steps to resolve any conflicts that may arise. In instances of private interests conflicting with co‑opted member duties, the co‑opted member must resolve this conflict in consultation with the Chair
• Declare any financial interest in a matter under discussion and withdraw from the room unless they have a dispensation to speak
• Declare an interest in any matter which might reasonably cause others to think it could influence their decision. State the nature of the interest but may remain in the room and participate in the discussion
• Consult with the Chair if in any doubt about the application of these rules

Period of Appointment

The appointment is for two years from the date of appointment with an annual review by the Chair of the Finance, Audit & Risk committee. Reappointment is renewable by mutual consent. We encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds. If you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the application process, please inform us along with your application. The role of a co‑opted member is voluntary, and co‑opted members do not receive any remuneration for their services. Reasonable out‑of‑pocket expenses incurred while carrying out the role will be reimbursed in accordance with the trustees’ expenses policy. You must be 18 years old or over. This role will require the following pre‑engagement checks: an enhanced DBS check and two references.