Historic England

Historic England is the public body that helps people care for, enjoy and celebrate England’s historic environment.

At Historic England we’re always looking for new ways to promote the past in ways that are inclusive to all and that celebrate the cultural diversity of England's heritage. To do that we need people with fresh perspectives, from all walks of life, to join us.

Our Audit and Risk Assurance Committee (ARAC) supports Historic England’s Commission and the Accounting Officer in their responsibilities for maintaining sound risk-management, control and governance arrangements.  Further details of the Committee, including biographies of current members and its Terms of Reference can be found here.

The Committee meets at least four times a year in central London.

We are seeking two independent members to join the Committee to ensure Historic England continues to maintain an excellent framework for corporate governance, financial and internal controls and accountability, including risk analysis and management.

Audit and Risk Assurance Committee Person Specification

The successful candidates should demonstrate the following:

• Substantial financial, audit and risk management experience at a senior level - preferably acquired within central government or in an Arm’s Length Body environment;

• A knowledge and understanding of public sector financial management;

• A knowledge and understanding of internal audit functions

• An ability to promote sound corporate governance and management of risk within Historic England, including scrutiny of the Annual Report and Accounts, financial processes and internal controls;

• An ability to operate effectively as a Committee member and to provide independent support, guidance and constructive challenge on matters referred to the Committee;

• An understanding of Historic England’s work, the environment in which it operates and a commitment to its aims and objectives; and

• Sympathy with the overall aims of Historic England in protecting the historic environment and handing on our national legacy of historic buildings and places to future generations.

How to apply

Please apply via our Applied Recruitment Platform where you will be able to upload your CV profile and answer four questions related to your skills and experience.

In your covering letter/email please briefly outline (in no more than 250 words for each) these areas:

• What skills, knowledge and experience do you have that are especially relevant to your application?

• Describe how you have influenced change or a key issue within your career.

• Tell us why being a part of a Committee here at Historic England interests you.

• And please confirm that you can meet the time commitment involved.

The deadline for applications is 23 May 2025.

Please note that these positions are not remunerated, although all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Appointments are made by the Chairman of Historic England following appropriate interviews and in line with the Government’s seven principles of public life (The ‘Nolan Principles’).

We regret that candidates who are not shortlisted will not be given feedback.