Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are looking to recruit a Co-opted Members to join our team based in Ipswich, Suffolk. You will join us on a fixed term appointment for up to three years, six mornings per annum for meetings plus preparation time and training. The successful candidates will earn a competitive salary of £712 per year plus travel expenses. Do you have the time and skills to make a positive and independent contribution to Babergh and Mid Suffolk's Joint Audit and Standards Committee? We are looking to appoint Two Co-opted Members to the Joint Audit and Standards Committee, ideally someone with financial, auditing and risk management experience. The two co-opted members will assist the Joint Audit and Standards Committee to discharge their powers and functions as detailed below: Providing independent assurance to the councils in relation to its governance, risk management and internal control environment. Considering and commenting on reports from council officers, the external auditor and other inspection agencies. Considering any significant issues arising from internal or external audit work and ensuring appropriate actions are taken for improvement. Commenting on the councils arrangements to counter fraud and corruption, including effective proactive and reactive actions. Assisting in the review of the annual statement of accounts, including the Annual Governance Statement and the external auditors report. Assisting in the review and monitoring of the effectiveness of both internal and external audit. Assisting the councils in promoting high standards of conduct by elected and co-opted Members through, in particular, the Suffolk Code of Conduct. Developing a sound understanding of the ethical framework as it operates within Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. Acting as advocate and ambassador for the councils in promoting ethical behaviour. Given the independent nature of this role, you should be someone who: Has not, within the period of five years immediately preceding the date of the appointment, been a councillor or officer of Babergh or Mid Suffolk District Council. Is not a relative or close friend of a councillor or officer of Babergh or Mid Suffolk District Council. Has no personal, legal, business or contractual relationship with the council (including employees, councillors or former staff), or any other relationship or activity which might represent a conflict of interest. Person Specification/Skills You will: be able to understand complex issues and the importance of accountability and probity in public life be able to analyse and assess evidence and come to a rational conclusion be able to reconcile the ideal with reality and practicality be able to demonstrate objectivity be able to demonstrate integrity and discretion be able to make decisions possess effective interpersonal and communication skills. Knowledge Some knowledge of local government would be useful. Knowledge of corporate governance arrangements in either the public, voluntary, community or private sectors would be beneficial. Knowledge of risk management. Experience You will: have business, financial, corporate governance, voluntary or community sector experience of working in a medium/large organisation at a senior level or other experience which would give similar benefits financial management experience (would be advantageous). Terms of appointment: The appointment will be for up to three years, subject to approval by council. This post will take up approximately up to six mornings per annum for meetings plus preparation time and training. You will need to undertake your duties in a politically neutral manner. You will be required to abide by the Councils Code of Conduct for Elected Members, which sets out expected standards of behaviour. You will be required to complete a Register of Interests form on an annual basis and keep this updated. An allowance of £712 remuneration per year is payable for this role. Travel expenses will be paid in addition to this amount. Closing date: 28 May 2025 If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this Co-opted Members role, even if you dont meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. ADZN1_UKTJ