The University of Sheffield is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities, with an international reputation for excellence. It has been awarded five Queen’s Anniversary Prizes, an award that recognises quality and innovation in research, and achievements that have made an outstanding contribution to the nation’s intellectual, economic, cultural and social life. Founded in 1905, the University has roots going back to 1828. The aim of its founders was to bring higher education within reach of the children of the people working in the great industries of Sheffield, to give support to those industries and to serve as a centre for the study of diseases. The University of Sheffield remains true to its origins and the values this has embedded. Its historic civic commitment to the city of Sheffield and the region is strong and it continues to embrace that role.

As a member of the Russell Group of 24 leading UK research universities, the University is consistently confirmed by independent assessment as outstanding for its research. We are amongst the top 50 most international universities in the world, according to data from the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Providing an excellent student experience is one of Sheffield's core values. Based on aggregate results, Sheffield was placed top in the Russell Group according to the most recent National Student Survey (NSS). Sheffield received the highest positive responses to 27 questions that asked students to rate their academic experience, mental wellbeing, resources and support. The Students’ Union has been named the best SU at the Whatuni Student Choice (WUSCA) Awards for the sixth year running.

The University is proud to be a values-led institution with global purpose and a reputation for the provision of outstanding research, teaching and student experience. Led by Professor Koen Lamberts as Vice-Chancellor, it is committed to changing the world for the better through the power and application of ideas and knowledge. Its vision is to build a University community that actively attracts, engages and develops talented individuals from all different backgrounds who will positively impact the world around them.

Purpose:

• The Council Audit and Risk Assurance Committee is a Committee of Council.
• It provides assurance to Council on matters relating to the University’s policies on whistleblowing, fraud and irregularity and on the adequacy and effectiveness of the University’s arrangements for risk management, control and governance; economy, efficiency and effectiveness (value for money); and management and quality of data returns.
• It advises on the appointment of the external auditors and the internal auditors and it oversees the development of the Annual Internal Audit Plan and the implementation of Internal and External Audit recommendations.
• The Committee meets five times per year, including meeting jointly with the Council Finance Committee in November each year.

The University seeks new Audit and Risk Assurance Committee Members who will have a strong understanding of regulatory requirements. They will mitigate risk and bring scrutiny to the Committee and wider Board.

The successful candidates could be an internal Audit Partner, a Compliance Director, a Head of Risk or a Lawyer/General Counsel, for example. Experience would ideally come from a heavily regulated industry. They will have ideally operated in similarly large and complex organisations and will bring good interpersonal skills, independence of thought and an ability to challenge constructively whilst making balanced and informed decisions. Experience in monitoring, managing and mitigating risk will also be required. 

Whilst previous Committee or Board experience is not necessary for this role, candidates will have strong leadership experience, a strategic approach, and excellent communication skills. They will be collaborative, collegial and will be strongly committed to the University of Sheffield's values and passionate about the transformative impact of education. 

Chair (Member of the Council):

Adrian Stone

Three lay members of the Council:

Claire Brownlie
Dr Phil Tenney
Alison Kay

Up to five lay members, as approved by the Council:

Lisha Chauhan

Ashiedu Joel

Neil Swift Professor

Andrew Taylor

In attendance (ex-officio):

Professor Gill Valentine, Provost & Deputy Vice-Chancellor

Joanne Jones, Chief Financial Officer
Jeannette Strachan, University Secretary

Secretary:

Dr Edward Smith, University Secretary’s Office)

There are five Audit and Risk Assurance Committee meetings per year, usually in October, November, January, March and June (which are normally held in person). The appointment is for a three year term which can be renewable once and then a further 3 x 1 year terms (subject to recommendation from the Committee Chair and Council's Nominations Committee). The role is unremunerated but reasonable, pre-agreed expenses will be reimbursed.

Committee Members will be expected to attend in-person meetings, and will therefore be UK-based. 

The University of Sheffield welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith, or disability. As people from ethnic minority backgrounds, women, and younger people are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from those individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.