The appointed Independent Co-Opted Member will provide independent challenge and scrutiny to help the council maintain effective:
- audit arrangements
- financial reporting
- risk management
- governance
- internal controls
Experience
You should have a good understanding of audit, risk, governance or financial management and be able to provide an independent and objective view.
Ideally, you will have:
- senior-level experience in a large or complex organisation
- experience of strategic or financial management, risk, governance or internal control
- previous experience of an audit committee
- an interest in public accountability
Preferred applicants will have lived or who have worked in Surrey, or have another connection to the county.
You will be expected to act with independence, integrity and impartiality and follow the Nolan Principles of Public Life.
Eligibility
You must be independent of the council and party politics.
You cannot apply if, within the previous 5 years, you have been:
- a member, co-opted member or officer of Surrey County Council
- one of the West Surrey district or borough councils
- a parish council within the Shadow Authority area
Other restrictions apply, including those relating to close connections with councillors or officers, certain criminal convictions, bankruptcy, significant business dealings with the council and formal connections with political groups.
Time commitment
The committee is expected to meet around 4 to 5 times a year, currently at the council offices in Guildford.
You will also need to:
- read agendas and committee papers before meetings
- take an active part in committee meetings
- attend relevant training
Length of appointment and benefits
The appointment is for 2 years and ends in May 2029.
Independent Co-Opted Members currently receive an allowance of £1,738 a year.
You can also claim eligible travel, subsistence and other expenses where these are not being paid by another organisation.
How to apply
Waverley Borough Council is managing this recruitment. The closing date for application is Friday 20 November 2026.