Independent Chair of Audit Committee

Remuneration: £5,332 per annum Appointment: Public appointment, up to four years, subject to annual confirmation by Full Council Location: Brent Civic Centre, Wembley, with preparation and meetings as required Remuneration: £5,332 per annum Appointment: Public appointment, up to four years, subject to annual confirmation by Full Council Location: Brent Civic Centre, Wembley, with preparation and meetings as required Help shape governance, accountability and public confidence in Brent Brent Council is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Independent Chair of its Audit and Standards Advisory Committee. This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in supporting good governance, strong financial stewardship, effective risk management and high standards of ethical conduct at one of London's largest and most diverse local authorities. As Independent Chair, you will provide visible and impartial leadership to the Committee, helping it deliver effective oversight, independent challenge and constructive support across a wide range of governance, risk, audit, finance and standards matters. You will work closely with elected members, senior officers, internal and external auditors, whilst maintaining the independence and objectivity that are central to the role. About the role The Audit and Standards Advisory Committee is a key component of Brent Council's governance framework. The Committee provides independent assurance, scrutiny and challenge in relation to: •    Corporate governance and accountability •    Risk management and internal control •    Internal and external audit •    Financial reporting and stewardship •    Counter-fraud and anti-corruption arrangements •    The Annual Governance Statement and Statement of Accounts •    Ethical standards and member conduct The Committee also plays an important role in promoting and maintaining high standards of conduct amongst elected members and ensuring that public confidence remains at the heart of the Council's governance arrangements. About you We are looking for an individual who can demonstrate: •    Significant senior-level experience in governance, audit, finance, risk management, regulation or leadership within a large and complex organisation. •    Experience of successfully chairing boards, committees or other senior decision-making forums. •    Strong knowledge of governance, assurance, risk management and accountability frameworks. •    The ability to analyse complex information, ask insightful questions and provide effective challenge. •    Excellent communication, influencing and interpersonal skills. •    The ability to operate effectively within a political environment whilst maintaining complete independence and impartiality. •    A strong commitment to integrity, openness, accountability and the Seven Principles of Public Life. Knowledge of local government governance, standards or audit arrangements would be advantageous, but we are also keen to hear from experienced candidates from the wider public, regulatory, voluntary or private sectors. For more information about the opportunity and role please read our candidate pack . For an informal conversation about this role, please contact Darren.armstrong@brent.gov.uk If you require reasonable adjustments contact Andrew.baxter@brent.gov.uk Eligibility for Appointment The successful applicant must meet the following requirements: Members’ Code of Conduct: Agree to observe the Members’ Code of Conduct. Time Commitment: Commit to a four-year term of office, subject to annual review, and attend approximately six meetings per year, plus any required briefings, training, workshops or extraordinary meetings, and undertake necessary preparation and follow-up work. Conflicts of Interest : Declare any actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest. These will be assessed to determine whether they affect suitability or can be appropriately managed. Independence and Political Activity: The Chair must be, an