Independent Chair for Risk and Audit Committee

We are seeking an Independent Chair for Whangarei District Council’s (WDC) Risk and Audit Committee.  This is a non-voting role and will be involved in exercising the delegated authority and functions of the Committee, in accord with the Terms of Reference.  WDC invites registrations of interest from appropriately qualified persons for consideration.

You will ideally have local government experience, at a senior management level, combined with governance and procurement experience with a range of local government organisations. Familiarity with risk management disciplines (identification, evaluation, mitigation and management) is essential.  The chairperson will bring the following skills and experience to the role: 

• broad governance experience
• familiarity with risk management disciplines  
• understanding of internal control and assurance frameworks 
• a good understanding of the roles of internal and external audit
• background in financial reporting/accounting, audit and/or Law 
• experience with public sector organisations
• the ability to explain technical matters in their field to other members of the audit committee
• understanding of the Local government Act 2002 (LGA) and Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA) 
• high business ethics, sound judgement and common sense
• strict confidentiality

The Chair’s role will be to provide independent and expert professional advice to other members of the Committee and to ensure that all financial matters including audit (internal and external) are properly and effectively undertaken. 

Expectations are that attendance at scheduled meetings will take place (at least 4 meetings per year, each of 2-3 hours duration).  Preparation of approximately 6-8 hours per meeting will be required and this will include reading of reports and requesting and considering any additional information.  The Chair will need to be available to attend preliminary meetings on the agenda in advance of each meeting, totaling 1-2 hours.

The successful applicant must be able to attend the scheduled Committee meetings in person, although preliminary meetings may be held virtually if necessary. 

It is anticipated that the role will require a maximum of 45-55 hours per annum.

To apply for this position, click the APPLY button.    

Applications close 5 pm Thursday, 27 November 2025.