We are proud of the services we offer and excited about the future. These are
challenging times, not least for our residents, and our services have never been more
necessary. Are you the right person to help lead us into the next part of our journey?
We are looking for two board members. One with experience in assurance, risk
management, and governance and one with finance and treasury skills.
An understanding of housing associations, plus a strong commitment to hearing and
acting on customer voices, would be an advantage, as is a willingness and ability to
learn quickly about a sector that is pivotal in local communities.
We offer a rewarding and enjoyable team environment, a supportive culture, and the
opportunity to play a fundamental role in achieving our vision and purpose.
If you would like to know more, please email hr@cornerstonehousing.net and will be
happy to arrange an informal chat with either of us.
Responsible to: Chair of the board
Responsible for: No line management responsibility
Salary : £2,625/year
Closing Date: 23/03/2026 9.00am
Click here to read more about our current Board members
Click here to read more about our Executive team
Please ensure the information is focussed on your current and/or most recent roles (you can sum up earlier roles, older than 15 years), and complete our skills matrix about your achievements so we get a picture of your skills and experience.
What is the application process?
- Call or email hr@cornerstonehousing.net with any questions or for more information and to discuss any access needs
- Make an application to us. This can be in any format as long as you explain why you are applying. Also complete our skills matrix.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview at our head office in Exeter.
- The successful candidate will be invited to observe a board meeting.
- There will be a short discussion with the panel about the meeting, and then the person will be appointed at our AGM in September.
Guide to Completing your Application Download Application Form Download our recruitment pack Download our Skills Matrix
Commitment
The following are expected to be attended by the board:
- In person board meetings, usually 6 per year (Wednesday evenings from 5pm – 7pm)
- Online committee meetings. Usually either 3 Audit and Risk Committee and 3 Remuneration and Nomination Committee.
- Two in-person away key events
- One – Two site visits per year (board tours to visit sites)
- Training sessions – a mix of in person, online and e-learning
- Additional meetings, task and finish groups as required
- Residents Engagement Panel meetings at least once per year
- Including preparation time and personal development this is estimated at an average of around 5 hours a month
Person Specification
| Audit oversight |
|---|
| 1.1. Monitor the integrity, accuracy, and transparency of the Association’s financial statements and disclosures. |
| 1.2. Review significant accounting judgements, estimates, and audit findings, ensuring challenge where appropriate. |
| 1.3. Oversee the performance, independence, and effectiveness of external auditors and internal audit functions. |
| 1.4. Ensure timely follow-up on audit recommendations and management responses. |
| Risk Management |
| 2.1. Provide oversight of the organisation’s risk management system. |
| 2.2. Ensure risks are identified, assessed, mitigated, and monitored effectively. |
| 2.3. Support a strong internal control environment. |
| 3. Cyber security and data integrity |
| 3.1. Provide scrutiny of the organisation’s cyber-risk posture. |
| 3.2. Review reporting on data governance and cyber incidents. |
| Compliance and Regulations |
| 4.1. Monitor compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the |
| organisation including the consumer standard regulations. |
| 4.2. Review internal and external audit inputs on compliance effectiveness. |
| 4.3. Uphold high standards of governance. |
| 4.4. Maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest. |
| Strategic Contribution |
| 5.1. Support the Board in setting strategic direction. |
| 5.2. Provide constructive challenge to executive leadership |
| Key Requirements |
| • Experience of chairing boards or committees with a demonstrable record of good agenda management, fostering constructive challenge and ensuring all views are heard |
| • Familiarity with the work of internal and external auditors, including procurement, reporting and evaluation of quality |
| • Practical experience of risk management frameworks, including identifying and critically evaluating sources of assurance |
| • Experience of building a constructive working relationship with an executive team |
| • Ability to read and absorb information, analyse and draw out relevant points for discussion |
| • Ability to contribute constructively and collaboratively and inspire confidence and respect |
| • Experience of strategic planning, including the ability to demonstrate strategic vision, insight and sound judgement |