Audit and Risk Committee
Reviewing the university's risk management
The Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) reviews the effectiveness of the University's risk management, control and governance arrangements, and satisfies itself that appropriate arrangements are in place to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness (value for money). It oversees the University’s internal and external audit arrangements, including the implementation of actions in response to audit-based recommendations, and audit aspects of the financial statements. The Committee receives assurance on the quality and management of data and returns to external agencies such as funding bodies, Office for Students (OfS) and the Higher Education Statistical Agency (HESA); and on compliance with the requirements of regulatory agencies, such as the OfS and UK Visas and Immigration. ARC, in liaison with the Senate, periodically checks the effectiveness and assurance provided by the systems and processes for academic governance, quality and standards.
Membership 2023/24
Kathy Cooper* (Chair) appointed 1 August 2022 (currently until 31 July 2025)
Professor Gill Nicholls* appointed 1 August 2022 (currently until 31 July 2025)
Amardeep Gill* appointed October 2023
Steve Washbourne appointed 1 August 2022 (currently until 31 July 2025)
*Current Independent Member of the University Council
At least four members who are independent of the University. Membership is for three years but may be renewed on up to two further occasions.
By invitation
Tim Pile, Chair of Finance & Infrastructure Committee
In attendance
Secretary
Liam Nevin, Secretary to Council
Aston University Officers
Craig Jones, Executive Director of Finance
Richard Billingham, Chief Operating Officer
Internal Auditors
Geraldine Rutter, Partner, PWC
Ben Connor, Director, PWC
External Auditors
Adam Footitt, Senior Manager, BDO
Sam Lifford, Audit Partner, BDO