Independent Chair of the Audit Committee

Join us in making a difference: Independent Chair of the Audit Committee

The London Borough of Hillingdon is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Independent Chair of its Audit Committee. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute to the governance and oversight of one of London's most dynamic boroughs.

Role Overview: 

The Audit Committee is integral to the Council's governance framework, providing independent assurance on the adequacy of the Council's audit, governance, and risk management processes. The Committee reviews both financial and non-financial performance, ensuring that risks are identified and managed effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Chair the Audit Committee meetings, fostering robust discussions and ensuring effective decision-making.
• Oversight: Monitor and review the Council’s audit processes, governance structures, and risk management strategies.
• Collaboration: Engage with elected Council Members and senior management to enhance the control environment and mitigate risks.
• Public Representation: representing the Council with the highest level of professionalism and integrity.

Candidate Profile:

• Expertise: Extensive knowledge and experience in internal audit, governance, and risk management within a local authority or similar context.
• Communication Skills: A confident and articulate communicator, capable of building strong relationships and negotiating effectively.
• Financial Acumen: A strong financial background with excellent analytical skills.
• Independence: To ensure impartiality, applicants must not be current or recent (within the last five years) elected Members or officers of Hillingdon Council, nor closely associated with any political party. Relatives or close friends of any Member or officer of Hillingdon Council will also not be considered.
• Commitment: The Audit Committee meets four times a year at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge, with meetings held in public. There is also a requirement to attend some additional training and briefings with relevant officers.

Remuneration: The post offers an annual allowance of £8,000.

Application Process: Interested and suitably qualified individuals are invited to submit an expression of interest (up to 500 words) to the Clerk to the Audit Committee, Democratic Services, London Borough of Hillingdon, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW, or by email to: [email protected].

For more information about the role, please contact Richard Ennis, Corporate Director of Finance, on 01895 556579 for an informal discussion.

Closing date 23 October 2024

• Hillingdon Sport Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Cycle Purchase Scheme – Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme.
• Discount on Golf Fees – Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses.
• Financial Benefits – Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Eye Care – We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment
• Mental Health Support – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues.
• Support and Counselling Services – Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.