Rotorua Lakes Council is the Territorial Authority for Rotorua and functions as the governing body for the Rotorua District. Our Council looks after $2.3 billion of public assets, $200 million in revenue and expenditure and delivers over a $100 million of capital expenditure annually.
Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced governance expert to provide strategic leadership to the recently formed Audit and Risk 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. Supporting the Council’s prudent management of community assets and finances.
Working closely with the mayor and councillors, the Chief Executive, the Executive Leadership Team and staff, 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 Audit and Risk Committee.
Position Title:
Independent Chairperson – Audit and Risk Committee
Reports to:
Rotorua Lakes Council (via the Audit and Risk Committee)
Term:
Fixed term of up to 3 years, aligned with the Council term.
Purpose of the Role:
The Independent Chair provides strategic leadership and independent oversight to Rotorua Lakes Council’s Audit and Risk Committee. The role ensures robust governance of risk management, internal controls, audit processes, and financial reporting, supporting the Council’s prudent management of community assets and resources in alignment with the committee’s delegations. The Audit and Risk Committee comprises the independent chair (this role), all RLC Councillors and the Mayor.
Key Responsibilities
The role is responsible for carrying out the following functions via the committee:
Committee Leadership
Chair meetings of the Audit and Risk Committee, ensuring effective governance and constructive discussion.
Set the Committee’s agenda in consultation with the Chief Executive and elected members.
Ensure the Committee operates in accordance with its Terms of Reference.
Risk Management & Assurance
Provide independent advice on the adequacy of Council’s risk management framework.
Monitor significant risks, including financial, operational, compliance, and reputational risks.
Review Council’s internal control systems and assurance processes.
Review business continuity policies and procedures.
Audit Oversight
Review the external audit programmes, including scope, engagement letters, and findings.
Ensure timely follow-up on audit recommendations and risk mitigation actions.
Financial Governance
Review and provide assurance on accounting policies adopted by Council.
Advise on financial management practices and compliance with relevant legislation.
Reporting & Accountability
Maintain transparency and integrity in all Committee processes.
Skills and Experience
Proven governance experience at board or committee level, preferably with public sector experience.
Strong understanding of:
Risk management frameworks and assurance processes.
Internal and external audit functions.
Financial management and reporting obligations.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality.
Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
Knowledge of local government or public sector operations is desirable.
Commitment
Quarterly meetings (minimum), plus preparation time. (Approximate annual commitment of 40-50 hours)
Occasional workshops or briefings as required.
Remuneration
A fixed annual fee of $25,000 plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses
Monthly based
Not specified
Not specified
