Audit and Risk Committee Member
Main purpose of job
The ARC member will support the Ombudsman in ensuring that the unique accountability arrangements which underpin the office remain effective. In delivering on NIPSO’s accountability and value for money obligations the ARC member will be mindful of the need to protect the Ombudsman’s operational independence.
The Ombudsman, as Accounting Officer, has responsibility for issues of risk, control and governance. The Ombudsman appoints an Audit and Risk Committee to provide additional scrutiny and assurance. The ARC’s role is not operational, neither has it any role in NIPSO’s decision making processes. Rather the ARC’s role is to advise and support the Ombudsman as Accounting Officer. The ARC Terms of Reference are available on the NIPSO website.
Summary of principal duties and responsibilities
Advising on the strategic processes for risk, control and governance;
Advising on and the Annual Report and Accounts, including the Governance Statement, the process for review and submission for audit, levels of error identified, and management’s letter of representation to the NIAO;
Challenge and advise on strategic financial management;
Advising on appropriate disaster recovery, contingency and crisis planning;
Reviewing the planned activity and results of both internal and external audit;
Advising on the adequacy of management response to issues identified by audit activity, including external audit’s “Report to Those Charged with Governance” (RTTCWG);
Assurances relating to the management of risk and corporate governance requirements for the NIPSO;
Advising on anti-fraud policies, whistle-blowing processes and arrangements for special investigations;
Provide assurance on the use of Direct Award Contracts;
Provide assurance on appointment of Internal Audit services;
This role profile is subject to review and amendment as the demands of the role and the organisation evolve. Therefore, the role holder will be required to be flexible and adaptable and aware that they may be asked to perform tasks, duties and responsibilities which are not specifically detailed in the role profile but which are commensurate with the role.
Remuneration
The remuneration for this post is £500 per meeting.
Location
Meetings will normally take place in NIPSO offices, Progressive House, 33 Wellington Place, Belfast, BT1 6HN.
Term
3 years from appointment. At the end of term, the Ombudsman may give consideration to a possible extension for a maximum period of a further 3 years.
This is not a public appointment, nor does it constitute employment, but it is subject to the NIPSO Code of Conduct and Conflicts of Interest policy.
For further information including a Candidate Information Pack and to submit your application, click the apply icon.
Completed application and monitoring forms must be submitted on the portal no later than 12 noon on Tuesday 12 May 2026.