Independent Performance and Scrutiny Committee Member

Job Introduction

Shropshire and Wrekin Fire and Rescue Authority

Independent Performance and Scrutiny Committee Members

We are looking to appoint two Independent Members to the Fire Authority's Performance and Scrutiny Committee to support in delivering good governance.

The Performance and Scrutiny Committee supports the work of the Fire Authority by:

• Ensuring effective governance is in place

• Monitoring Fire and Rescue Service performance against, and progress towards, achievement of its goals and performance indicators.

• Scrutinising decisions of the Fire Authority and the implementation of policy at the Fire and Rescue Service

The Role of the Independent Member

The role of independent members on the Performance and Scrutiny Committee is important to the Fire Authority. Our committee currently comprises five Members of the Fire Authority and two vacant independent member roles. An information pack for new independent Performance and Scrutiny Committee members is provided.

As an independent member, you will be expected to

• attend four or five Performance & Scrutiny Committee meetings each year. Meetings are usually held in the afternoons and take place at Fire Service Headquarters, Shrewsbury.

• to prepare for meetings by reading the agenda pack that is issued to attendees in advance of the meeting.

• attend training provided for the Performance and Scrutiny Committee

• be proactive in your approach and be able to offer appropriate and effective challenge in meetings.

• have good analytical skills and a desire to support the efficient and effective delivery of the Fire and Rescue Service across the county of Shropshire

Eligibility to apply

Unfortunately, you cannot be appointed as an Independent Member if you:

• have significant previous dealings with the Fire Authority which may compromise (or give the appearance of compromising) their impartiality and independence
• are a Councillor of a local authority, or have been in the last five years; or are actively involved in local party-political activity
• are an employee or consultant to the Fire Authority or other partner organisation with which the Authority has dealings which might affect your impartiality
• have a connection with any political group
• have a criminal conviction or an undischarged bankruptcy

Appointment Status

Members are appointed for a period of one 4-year term and will be eligible for re-appointment for one additional 4-year term

Salary

The roles attract an allowance of £500 per annum

How to Apply

The Fire Authority is particularly keen to hear from a diverse range of applicants, especially those with a background in finance, audit, governance, performance or enterprise.

If you would be interested in applying for these roles, please provide an up-to-date copy of your CV together with a one page supporting statement detailing why you are interested applying for the role, along with the experience and benefits you could bring to the role.

Applicants who require reasonable adjustments for disabilities at any stage of the selection process are invited to make contact.

On review of your application, we will notify you whether you will or will not be invited for an informal interview.

Further Information

If you are interested in this role and would like an informal chat about this position, please contact either:

Anthea Lowe, Clerk and Monitoring Officer

Richard Phillips, Deputy Clerk and Monitoring Officer

For more information about Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service and/or Shropshire and Wrekin Fire and Rescue Authority, please visit

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is committed to equality and diversity at work. We positively welcome applications from disabled people and under-represented groups.