Independent Member of the Risk and Assurance Committee

Horowhenua District Council invites expressions of interest for the appointment of Independent Members to its Risk and Assurance Committee.

The Risk and Assurance Committee is a key governance mechanism that supports the Council’s statutory responsibilities for stewardship, accountability, and prudent financial management. In accordance with Office of the Auditor‑General good‑practice guidance, the Committee provides independent and objective assurance to the Council and Chief Executive on the effectiveness of risk management, internal control, and accountability systems.

Independent Members contribute an external perspective and are critical to ensuring robust, free and frank discussion, and public confidence in Council decision‑making.

Independent Members are full voting members of the Committee and are appointed for a three‑year term, aligned with the current Council triennium.

Purpose of the role

Consistent with OAG guidance, the Committee’s role is advisory and assurance‑focused. It does not replace the role of elected members or management, nor does it direct operations. Its purpose is to provide independent advice and assurance on whether the Council’s systems and processes are operating as intended .

Key areas of oversight

The Committee’s work programme includes oversight of:

• Risk management and assurance frameworks
• Internal and external audit arrangements
• Financial and non‑financial performance reporting
• Treasury management and financial controls
• Annual reporting and statutory accountability
• Significant organisational, legal, and emerging risks

Skills, experience, and independence

The Council is seeking individuals who can bring independent judgement and professional scepticism, and who are able to constructively challenge information provided by management, in line with OAG expectations of effective audit and risk committees .

Candidates will demonstrate experience in one or more of the following:

• Governance or board roles, particularly audit, risk, or assurance committees
• Senior leadership in a complex organisation
• Audit, risk management, assurance, finance, or legal disciplines
• Strong financial literacy and the ability to interpret complex reports
• Knowledge of, or experience in, the public sector or local government environment

A Chartered Accountant qualification or equivalent, and prior experience on audit or risk committees, are desirable.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate independence from Council management and decision‑making, and the ability to identify, disclose, and manage conflicts of interest appropriately, in line with public sector expectations .

The Treaty of Waitangi - Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Applicants must demonstrate an understanding of, or commitment to developing capability in relation to, the Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and its relevance to public sector governance and accountability.

Personal attributes

In line with OAG good practice, Independent Members are expected to demonstrate:

• High standards of integrity, objectivity, and ethical conduct
• Analytical rigour and sound professional judgement
• The ability to ask probing questions and test assumptions
• Clear communication of complex information to non‑specialist audiences
• A collaborative approach that supports effective committee functioning while maintaining independence

We are also looking for people who have pervious experience with Risk and Assurance type committees, and who demonstrate an understanding of the environment within which Horowhenua District Council operates.

Location

Meetings may be held in person or electronically.

How to apply

Expressions of interest should include a cover letter and curriculum vitae, outlining relevant governance experience, professional expertise, and ability to contribute independent assurance in a public sector environment.

For further information, including the full position outline, please contact graysonr@horowhenua.govt.nz Horowhenua District Council – Democracy Services.