Independent Chair – Risk and Assurance Committee

Who are we

He oranga Whenua, He oranga Tangata, He oranga Wairua. Tihei Mauriora!

Rangitīkei District Council (RDC) is a territorial authority governed by the Local Government Act 2002. The District comprises 4.500 kilometers of land (mainly rural) and has a population of around 16,300.  Council looks after around $845 million of public assets and receives a total operating revenue of around $55 million.

The Opportunity

Independent Chairperson – Risk and Assurance Committee

We’re seeking a suitably qualified and experienced governance expert to provide strategic leadership and independent oversight to Councils Risk and Assurance Committee.  You will play an important role in providing objective advice and recommendations to the Council on the adequacy and functioning of the Council’s risk management, audit framework and external reporting, while supporting Council’s prudent management of community assets and finances.

Working closely with the mayor and councillors, the Chief Executive, and the Executive Leadership Team, you will bring your risk and financial acumen and literacy skills together with your broad governance knowledge and local government experience to support and guide the Risk and Assurance Committee.

The role will be responsible for carrying out the following functions via the Risk and Assurance Committee:

• Risk and Assurance Committee leadership
• Risk management and assurance, including cyber security
• Audit (internal and external) oversight
• Financial governance
• Reporting and accountability
  

The tenure of the role is for a fixed term of up to three-years, aligned with the Council triennium. 

Commitment:

• Quarterly meetings (minimum), plus preparation time. (Approximate annual commitment of 40-50 hours)
• Occasional workshops or briefings as required.
  

Payment:

A fixed meeting fee will apply based on skills and experience, together with reimbursement of reasonable expenses.

About You

To be successful in this role you will have proven experience at a board or committee level, including chairing of meetings, and preferably, public sector experience. 

You will also have a strong understanding of:

• Risk management frameworks and assurance processes
• Internal and external audit functions
• Financial management and reporting obligations

Together with:

• The ability to exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• An understanding of Central Government and Local Government changes and the impacts this may have.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills
• Experience in chairing meetings and directing conversations
• Knowledge of local government and public sector operations is desirable.
  

How to Apply

To apply in strict confidence, please email your cover letter and CV to hr@rangitikei.govt.nz.  Along with your relevant background and experience, applications should outline why you are interested in the position and why you believe you are suited to the role.

Applications must be received by 5.00 pm on Monday 2^nd February 2026.

For any enquiries about this role please contact Leanne Macdonald at Leanne.Macdonald@Rangitikei.govt.nz