The Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (the Commission) is required to ensure that it has effective arrangements in place to provide an independent and high-level focus on the adequacy of governance, risk and control arrangements. The Governance and Audit Committee’s (the Committee) role in ensuring that there is sufficient assurance over governance risk and control gives greater confidence to all those charged with governance that those arrangements are effective. The committee has oversight of both internal and external audit together with the financial and governance reports, helping to ensure that there are adequate arrangements in place for both internal challenge and public accountability. Role Purpose Provide effective leadership to the Committee, ensuring high standards of corporate governance and personal integrity. Accountability: To the Commission Key Responsibilities: Provide assurance to the Accounting Officer, ensuring that funds provided by the Welsh Government are applied properly and in accordance with the requirements of Welsh Government policies. Demonstrate innovative leadership to drive the Committee's strategic vision and adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities. Demonstrate independence, integrity, and impartiality in decision making according to legal, constitutional and policy requirements. Consider the requirements of the Commission and the professional advice of senior management of the Commission including the Chief Executive, Head of Policy & Programmes, Head of Business and Head of Democratic Health. Comply with the Commission’s Code of Conduct. Work according to the Terms of Reference for the Committee. Contribute to the development of the forward work plan for the Committee. Promote the role of the Committee within the Commission. Respond to any recommendations made by the Auditor General for Wales (Audit Wales). Set the agenda for the Committee meetings (supported by the Finance Manager). Participate in any training and development required for the role. Contributing to the work of the Committee in its role in: Reviewing and scrutinising the Commission’s financial affairs Making recommendations in relation to the Commission’s financial affairs. Reviewing and assessing the Commission’s ability to report its expenditure and budget position effectively Overseeing the authority’s internal and external audit arrangements. Working with internal and external auditors. Reviewing the financial statements prepared by the authority and approve them for signing. Contributing to the effective performance of the Commission Reviewing and assessing the Commission’s ability to handle complaints effectively. Reviewing and assessing the Commission’s ability to handle Freedom of Information requests effectively. Reviewing and assessing the effectiveness of the Commission’s ICT Security arrangements. Reviewing and assessing the Governance, Risk Management and Control of the Commission Reviewing and assessing the risk management, internal control, and corporate governance arrangements of the Commission. Making recommendations to the Commission on the adequacy and effectiveness of those arrangements. Reviewing and assessing the financial risks associated with corporate governance, and be satisfied that the Commission’s assurance statements, including the annual governance statement, reflects the risk environment and any activities required to improve it. Person Criteria: Commitment to the Values of Public Life Commitment to the Nolan Committee’s ‘Seven Principles of Public Life’ and the values of the Commission and the following values in public office: Selflessness Integrity Objectivity Accountability Openness Honesty Leadership Equality and inclusion Skills/Experience Essential Criteria: Analytical Skills in Risk, Performance, and Financial Management: Strong analytical skills in risk, performance, and financial management, with the ability to identify key issues and implications. Relationship Building and Stakeholder Confidence: Proven ability to build and maintain successful relationships, provide challenge, and inspire confidence with a wide range of stakeholders. Public Sector Challenges: Proven ability to address key challenges in the public sector through practical experience. Governance and Audit Committee Experience: At least 5 years of experience as a Chair or member of a Governance and Audit Committee (GAC) in the public or private sector. Desirable Criteria: Local Government Knowledge in Wales: Knowledge of how local government operates in Wales and the importance of democratic health. Legislative Framework Understanding: An understanding of the legislative framework within which the Commission operates to ensure effective and robust decision-making. Remuneration: The Chair is entitled to claim remuneration at a rate of £311 per day. Travel and subsistence will be paid as required. Appointment will be for a fixed period of 4 years. Contact Point: Shereen Williams, Chief Executive, Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru, (Tel. 029 2046 4819) E-mail: shereen.williamsdbcc.gov.wales Applications (CV and covering letter), should be submitted by email via the button below by 12/02/25