A former Ofsted inspector will ask questions about decisions made by Nottingham city councillors and officers.
Nottingham City Council has been criticised for having weakened audit and risk analysis systems in the past.
A team of commissioners, who were appointed by the Government early in 2024 to oversee improvements at the council, said that while these areas have improved, there remain “inconsistencies”.
Ineffective audit and risk analysis have previously been cited as reasons for poor financial management and the collapse of council-run Robin Hood Energy.
A new independent member of the audit committee, where finances, governance and policy-making are scrutinised by councillors, has now been appointed.
Andrew Middleton attended his first audit committee meeting on Friday (February 20) and said that he has “positive” initial impressions.
He said he had “nothing yet to suggest” the council was not well run under its current leadership and officers.
Mr Middleton’s main career was over 30 years in further education, including 18 as principal at Stamford College and 12 as a part-time Ofsted inspector.
“This is the twelfth audit committee on which I’ve served in over 30 years, six of which I’ve chaired,” he said, speaking to councillors at the meeting.
“Other current audit committees I serve on are the Notts Police and Crime Commissioner, the Lincs Police and Crime Commissioner, Lincolnshire County Council and Barnsley Healthcare Federation.
“I’ve got a clear understanding of the audit committee role and where its boundaries are. Of course, its core purpose is to strengthen governance systems and frameworks to ensure councillors are making policy-making and strategic decisions with the right controls and systems.
“My style is to listen, analyse, explore and ask questions. I’m very much looking forward to working with you to further strengthen your record as a well-run council.”
Mr Middleton will be paid an allowance of £4,000 per year for the role, which the council says is good value.
Lynne Dowdican has also been appointed as chief internal auditor, who will provide “an independent and objective assurance”.
During the meeting she said her immediate priorities are to review the internal audit plan and assess the maturity of governance, risk and control arrangements.
“What I want is for the internal audit service to be independent, robust, practical, forward-looking and collaborative,” she added.
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