Jersey member sought for the Board of Governance of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

The role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) is to report to the States Assembly on the use of public funds. But it is important that the Office of the C&AG can itself demonstrate that it has used public funds properly and secured value for money.

Two years ago, the States adopted a recommendation from Karen McConnell, the C&AG, that her Office should be placed under the scrutiny of an independent Board. That led to the establishment last year of a Board with two independent members who have experience of serving on the boards of the public audit bodies in Wales and Scotland. 

Now the States are seeking – at the Board’s request – to recruit a further independent member to broaden their collective experience. In particular, they hope to recruit someone who would bring direct experience of living and working in Jersey. 

Peter Price, Chair of the Board of Governance, said: 

“The Board has made a good start, putting in place the structures and working methods which are appropriate for the role. Now we want to advance by adding more skills and perspectives. 

“Ideally, we would like to have a Jersey based Board member, since I and my independent member colleague bring experience from Wales and Scotland. Both are relatively small nations and a Jersey person would give us an even better sense of what fits Jersey’s size and context. 

“Effective public audit promotes value for money and accountability in public spending. It should be seen as positive – helping Jersey to attain the best attainable results. So, the successful applicant will be contributing to a very worthwhile activity.” 

The Board keeps under review whether the C&AG is using the resources provided by the States properly, efficiently and effectively. 

JERSEY AUDIT OFFICE, LINCOLN CHAMBERS (1ST FLOOR), 31 BROAD STREET, ST HELIER, JE2 3RR 

Karen McConnell, the C&AG, said: 

“The Board is an important means of ensuring that there is accountability for the use of the public funds made available to my Office. I welcome the initiative to recruit a further member and am particularly keen to see somebody from the Island on the Board.” 

Application details can be found on the JAO website at: https://www.jerseyauditoffice.je/governance-board/ 

The closing date is 20 November 2017.