Independent Member of Audit Committee

Whether you bring extensive governance experience or are seeking your first committee appointment, we are keen to hear from individuals with strong financial, audit, risk or governance expertise who can contribute independent perspectives and sound judgement.

Above all, you will share our commitment to protecting heritage, inspiring audiences and ensuring the effective stewardship of a purpose-driven organisation.

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Shares our commitment to preserving and sharing the UK's historic palaces for the benefit of current and future generations.
• Brings senior-level experience in finance, accounting, audit, risk management or governance within a complex organisation.
• Can provide independent judgement, constructive challenge and strategic insight in support of effective decision-making.
• Understands the principles of financial stewardship, assurance, internal control and organisational risk management.
• Brings a breadth of experience and perspective that will strengthen discussion, challenge and decision-making.
• Builds trusted and constructive relationships whilst maintaining independence of judgement.
• Champions transparency, accountability and good governance.
• Has the commitment and capacity to contribute fully to the work of the Committee.

What You Will Contribute

As a member of the Audit & Risk Committee, you will help provide independent assurance to the Board through oversight of:

• Financial reporting and the integrity of financial information.
• Risk management and emerging organisational risks.
• Internal control and compliance frameworks.
• Internal and external audit programmes, including engagement with auditors and consideration of audit findings and recommendations.
• Governance effectiveness and accountability arrangements.

Your expertise and perspective will help ensure that Historic Royal Palaces remains financially resilient, well governed and able to deliver its charitable objectives for years to come.

About You

We are keen to hear from candidates who can demonstrate:

• Significant senior leadership, board-level or director-level experience.
• Expertise in finance, audit, accounting, risk or assurance.
• Strong analytical skills and the confidence to ask insightful questions.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Independence of thought, integrity and sound judgement.
• A professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent experience would be advantageous, as would previous experience serving on an Audit Committee, Board or governance body.

Time Commitment

Approximately three to four meetings each year.

• Meetings are typically held virtually via Microsoft Teams.
• Preparation time will be required to review papers and reports in advance.
• This is a voluntary appointment. Reasonable expenses incurred in undertaking the role will be reimbursed.

Inclusion & Diversity

Historic Royal Palaces is committed to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging where everyone is welcomed, respected and able to contribute.

We believe that a range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives leads to stronger governance, better decision-making and more effective oversight.

If you meet many, but not all, of the criteria outlined, we would still encourage you to apply.

Join us and help shape the future of one of the nation's most important heritage organisations, ensuring that the extraordinary palaces in our care continue to inspire, educate and enrich lives for generations to come.

For more information, or to arrange an informal conversation about the role, please contact Historic Royal Palaces' Company Secretary, Stephen Corri, at stephen.corri@hrp.org.uk.

If you are interested in the role but are unsure whether your experience is a perfect match, we would encourage you to get in touch for an informal discussion.