The David Ross Education Trust (DRET)  is seeking to appoint a trustee and chair of the Risk and Audit Committee.  Our board plays a vital role in helping our schools to flourish, strategically guiding our direction, holding our executive to account and ensuring that children across our communities receive the highest quality education.  We are seeking a trustee who shares our vision, with the capacity to help us to continue to uphold the highest standards of governance.

This is an important opportunity to contribute to a large, successful multi‑academy trust and to help ensure that DRET continues to be a great place to work, learn and lead.

The Risk and Audit Committee plays a critical role in supporting the Trust Board to meet its responsibilities under the Academy Trust Handbook, including oversight of:

• risk management and internal control
• internal scrutiny and assurance
• audit and regularity
• integrity, propriety and value for money

 As Committee Chair, you will work closely with the Board, executive leaders and external assurance providers to ensure that the Trust has effective, proportionate and well‑understood systems of risk management and assurance.

We are particularly interested in candidates with senior‑level experience in one or more of the following:

• audit, risk or assurance
• finance, accountancy or internal control
• public sector governance or regulation
• compliance, legal or risk management
• external or internal audit

 You will be able to demonstrate:

• strong analytical and strategic thinking
• confidence in chairing meetings and leading professional discussion
• the ability to provide robust but constructive challenge
• high standards of integrity and independence

Experience in education is not essential. We welcome candidates from the public, private or third sector who can bring a strong, independent risk perspective.