Chair & Member Audit and Risk Committee – Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman

Chair & Member Audit and Risk Committee – Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman Closed

The Office of the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO) independently investigates complaints against public bodies in Northern Ireland. It is publicly funded and is headed by the Ombudsman, Margaret Kelly.

The ARC member will support the Ombudsman in ensuring that the unique accountability arrangements which underpin the office remain effective. In delivering on NIPSO’s accountability and value for money obligations the ARC member will be mindful of the need to protect the Ombudsman’s operational independence.

The Ombudsman, as Accounting Officer, has responsibility for issues of risk, control and governance. The Ombudsman appoints an Audit and Risk Committee to provide additional scrutiny and assurance. The ARC’s role is not operational, neither has it any role in NIPSO’s decision making processes. Rather the ARC’s role is to advise and support the Ombudsman as Accounting Officer.

• Advising on the strategic processes for risk, control and governance;
• Advising on and the Annual Report and Accounts, including the Governance Statement, the process for review and submission for audit, levels of error identified, and management’s letter of representation to the NIAO;
• Challenge and advise on strategic financial management;
• Advising on appropriate disaster recovery, contingency and crisis planning;
• Reviewing the planned activity and results of both internal and external audit;
• Advising on the adequacy of management response to issues identified by audit activity, including external audit’s “Report to Those Charged with Governance” (RTTCWG);
• Assurances relating to the management of risk and corporate governance requirements for the NIPSO;
• Advising on anti-fraud policies, whistle-blowing processes and arrangements for special investigations;
• Provide assurance on the use of Direct Award Contracts;
• Provide assurance on appointment of Internal Audit services;

Remuneration: The remuneration for this post is £500 per meeting (£650 for Chair).

Closing date for receipt of application forms is Wednesday 13 th November
at 12 noon.

NIPSO is committed to the merit principle in respect of all appointments.

NIPSO is an Equal Opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified applicants.