Visit https://www.cornerstonehousing.net/vacancies/board-member-audit-and-risk-chair/ for more information.

We are proud of the services we offer and excited about the future. These are challenging times, not least for our residents, and our services have never been more necessary. Are you the right person to help lead us into the next part of our journey?

We are looking for two board members. One with experience in assurance, risk management, and governance and one with finance and treasury skills.

An understanding of housing associations, plus a strong commitment to hearing and acting on customer voices, would be an advantage, as is a willingness and ability to learn quickly about a sector that is pivotal in local communities.

We offer a rewarding and enjoyable team environment, a supportive culture, and the opportunity to play a fundamental role in achieving our vision and purpose.

If you would like to know more, please email [email protected] and will be happy to arrange an informal chat with either of us.

Application

Application can be in any format but please explain your interest and the skills and experience relevant to the role.

Closing date: 23th March 2026

Interviews: 21st April 2026

Please ensure the information is focussed on your current and/or most recent roles (you can sum up earlier roles, older than 15 years), and complete our skills matrix about your achievements so we get a picture of your skills and experience. If you have any questions or to find out more about the role please contact [email protected] or call 01392 273462.

Remuneration

The Chair of ARC is paid £2,625 annually plus reasonable expenses.

Commitment

The following are expected to be attended by the board:

• In person board meetings, usually 6 per year (Wednesday evenings from 5pm – 7pm)
• Online committee meetings. Usually either 3 Audit and Risk Committee and 3 Remuneration and Nomination Committee.
• 2 in-person away key events
• 1-2 site visits per year (board tours to visit sites)
• Training sessions – a mix of in person, online and e-learning
• Additional meetings, task and finish groups as required.
• Residents Engagement Panel meetings at least once per year
• Including preparation time and personal development this is estimated at an average of around 5 hours a month

Qualities of a board member

Customer and community focus

The board demonstrates a clear customer perspective and an ability to understand and articulate residents needs, overseeing the implementation of strategies, policies and procedures designed to best meet those needs, champions the voice of residents and communities.

Personal skills

Leads by example in terms of behaviour, including putting customers at the heart of what we do, commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and supporting others.

Analysing and scrutinising

Actively seeks facts, data and information necessary for the board to make strategic decisions and to ensure that performance delivery and management of risk is in line with our risk appetite. Able to support the Board to balance the needs and desires of customers with the pressures on the organisation.

Directing strategy

Actively contributes to setting, prioritising and monitoring delivery of strategic Objectives, is able to take a broad overview, taking into account all relevant factors when considering organisational strategies, brings external environmental scanning into the debate, and is aware of trends and developments both internally and externally.

Self-management and development

Demonstrates enthusiasm and commitment to their role, prepares in advance, regularly attend and participates fully in meetings, appraisals and Board and Committee effectiveness reviews.

Partnerships and relationships

Is a strong ambassador for Cornerstone, acting responsibly and appropriately when representing Cornerstone at external events, builds and maintains constructive working relationships with other board and governance members, the executive team, staff and relevant stakeholders.

Knowledge

Understanding of social, economic and political issues affecting the sector and its customers.

Our Board

The board oversees and monitors our performance and is responsible for setting and regularly reviewing our strategic direction. Our board ensures we function within our legal and financial requirements, comply with relevant codes, and develop and maintain our homes to a high standard. Board members contribute relevant experience, expertise and insight to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of Cornerstone. They promote their objectives, vision, purpose, and values through management control, accountability, ethical conduct, and good governance.

Job Description

1. Audit oversight

1.1. Monitor the integrity, accuracy, and transparency of the Association’s financial statements and disclosures.

1.2. Review significant accounting judgements, estimates, and audit findings, ensuring challenge where appropriate.

1.3. Oversee the performance, independence, and effectiveness of external auditors and internal audit functions.

1.4. Ensure timely follow-up on audit recommendations and management responses.

2. Risk Management

2.1. Provide oversight of the organisation’s risk management system.

2.2. Ensure risks are identified, assessed, mitigated, and monitored effectively.

2.3. Support a strong internal control environment.

3. Cyber security and data integrity

3.1. Provide scrutiny of the organisation’s cyber-risk posture.

3.2. Review reporting on data governance and cyber incidents.

4. Compliance and Regulations

4.1. Monitor compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the organisation, including the consumer standard regulations.

4.2. Review internal and external audit inputs on compliance effectiveness.

4.3. Uphold high standards of governance.

4.4. Maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest.

5. Strategic Contribution

5.1. Support the Board in setting strategic direction.

5.2. Provide constructive challenge to executive leadership.

Key Requirements

• Experience of chairing boards or committees with a demonstrable record of good agenda management, fostering constructive challenge and ensuring all views are heard
• Familiarity with the work of internal and external auditors, including procurement, reporting and evaluation of quality
• Practical experience of risk management frameworks, including identifying and critically evaluating sources of assurance
• Experience of building a constructive working relationship with an executive team
• Ability to read and absorb information, analyse and draw out relevant points for discussion
• Ability to contribute constructively and collaboratively and inspire confidence and respect
• Experience of strategic planning, including the ability to demonstrate strategic vision, insight and sound judgement