Charity Commission publishes revised governance framework
Independent review confirms role of board in operational matters.
The Charity Commission has today published a revised and updated governance framework following an independent review.
The commission’s governance framework sets out the procedures for the effective and efficient conduct of its business, and the respective roles of the board, the chair, the chief executive officer and the executive.
This follows an independent review of the commission’s governance framework and board effectiveness, a summary of which is also published. The purpose of the review was to assess the effectiveness of the governance framework, evaluate the performance of the board and audit & risk committee and ensure the governance arrangements enable the accounting officer and the board to fulfil their obligations. It follows a recommendation from the National Audit Office to conduct such a review.
Alan Downey, a former KPMG partner and head of public sector practice, and also an independent member of the commission’s audit & risk committee, was appointed to lead the review. It confirms the board’s authority to intervene directly in operational matters, particularly those which affect the commission’s reputation and performance, and concludes that the board operates effectively. It makes a number of recommendations for improvements, including changes to the governance framework, all of which the commission has accepted.
William Shawcross, chairman of the commission said:
Our new governance framework sets out clearly what our purpose is, and how the commission will be governed. I want to thank Alan Downey for his work on the review and the helpful clarity it has brought to the way in which we work.
The board brings huge expertise across a range of issues. It strengthens the commission immeasurably and I am grateful for their support. I would also like to thank the executive for their hard work in delivering the strategic aims set out by the board.
Paula Sussex, CEO of the commission said:
This review and framework confirm the way the board and executive interact. The complementary relationship enables the commission to be an effective regulator. As we continue to transform the commission into a modern regulator, I look forward to the continued support provided by the board.
Ends
PR69/15
Notes to Editors
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The Charity Commission is the independent regulator and registrar of charities in England and Wales.
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We act in the public’s interest to ensure that charities know what they have to do, the public know what charities do, and charities are held to account.
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