Independent Person (Audit) - Audit, Governance & Standards Committee

INDEPENDENT MEMBER WANTED FOR AUDIT, GOVERNANCE AND STANDARDS COMMITTEE

The composition of Audit, Governance and Standards is a key factor in achieving the characteristics of a good audit committee. Audit committees in Welsh Local Authorities, Combined Authorities in England and in Police Audit Committees in England and Wales are subject to specific rules on the composition of the committee, requiring lay or independent members on the committee.

In other parts of the Local Authority sector there are no statutory requirements that determine the composition of the audit committee, although a significant number have already introduced at least one independent member. The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) endorses the approach of mandatory inclusion of a lay or independent member and recommends that for authorities, for whom it is not a requirement, they actively explore the appointment of an independent member to the committee.

Such arrangements provide for the Council to appoint an independent member to bring support to the independent challenge of the council’s governance arrangements.

Brentwood Borough Council has decided to appoint one independent member to Audit, Governance and Standards Committee.

The term of the appointment will be for two years.

The estimated time commitment required to undertake the role can vary, but on average it would involve attendance at four meetings of between one to three hours, plus associated preparatory reading. Committee meetings are generally held in the evening.

The Independent Member will be entitled to a payment of approximately £1,250 a year under the Council’s Members’ Allowances Scheme.

Applicants will need to demonstrate: -

1. Specific Finance/Audit or Governance experience
2. Experience in working to high standards of integrity and probity.

• Ideally will live or work in the Borough, with a good knowledge of it's communities.

1. An ability to assess information and reach rational conclusions.
2. Not be politically active or have a personal or contractual relationship with the Council or any of its Members or staff.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact David Dickinson, Strategic Director Resources, on 01277 312914.

How to apply: Please download and complete the application form below and then email it to David.dickinson@brentwood.rochford.gov.uk

The closing date for completed applications is noon on 28 June 2026.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.