Audit & Governance Committee Independent Member

Do you have the time and skills to make a positive and independent contribution to Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council’s Audit and Governance Committee?

Building on the successful appointments made previously, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is inviting applications from individuals to serve as up to two Independent Members of its Audit & Governance Committee from approximately April 2026. This is a valuable opportunity to play a key role in strengthening transparency, accountability, and good governance across the Council.

The Audit & Governance Committee is a key component of the Council’s corporate governance framework. The Committee provides assurance and high‑level focus on risk management, governance, financial controls, annual accounts and the work of internal and external audit.

As an independent member you will serve a term of 2 years, with the option to renew for a further 2‑year term if mutually agreed. All appointments and terms are subject to full Council agreement and decision.

You will receive an annual allowance of £1,239 (current rate to 31 March 2026) payable monthly in arrears. This figure is set by an independent remuneration panel and may be subject to change.

Notice of intent to resign from the role can be given at any time; no period of notice is required.

As an independent member you will be required to sign an undertaking to comply with the Council’s Code of Conduct for Members, and to complete a Declaration of Interests form annually.

The estimated time commitment will vary, but on average will involve attendance at up to 8 early‑evening meetings a year, supplemented by occasional ad‑hoc meetings or briefings. Meetings typically start at 6 pm and last approximately 2 to 4 hours. Most meetings are in person at BCP Council’s Bournemouth Civic Centre, with very occasional electronic meetings. As independent members have no voting rights, electronic attendance is possible, though some in‑person attendance is preferred.

Meetings are live streamed.

• To be an independent non‑voting member of the Audit & Governance Committee, providing external challenge and support.
• To assist the Committee in delivering on its Terms of Reference.
• To receive and consider reports to the Committee from internal and external auditors and other Council Officers.
• To have an affinity with the values of public service.
• To be politically aware without political affiliations or memberships.
• To apply strategic thinking to reports from across the Council.
• To provide challenge and ask questions that draw out relevant facts and explanations.
• To get to the facts while maintaining positive relationships.
• To seek understanding and provide solutions.
• To evaluate information based on evidence presented without political bias.
• To weigh up differing views and be able to come to an evidence‑based conclusion.

• In a business management environment, working at a senior level in a large or complex organisation or holding an appropriate qualification.
• Knowledge of corporate governance arrangements in the public, private or charity sectors.
• Alternatively, experience sitting on an Audit Committee in a large organisation or other experience providing similar benefits or understanding.

• Good analytical, communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of integrity inspiring public confidence.
• Ability to constructively challenge and hold Council officers to account.
• Good IT skills, including the ability to access reports and information electronically.
• Understanding of confidentiality requirements.
• Ability to work as part of a team and contribute to the Committee’s work.
• Able to understand the importance of accountability and probity in public life.
• Ability to see and focus on the ‘big picture’ and avoid being drawn into detail.
• Able to reconcile the ideal with reality and practicality, balancing risk, reward and response.
• Able to analyse and assess evidence and come to a rational conclusion.
• Demonstrate objectivity, integrity and discretion in decision making.

To be eligible to become a BCP Council Independent…