CIPFA has relaunched the Better Reporting Group (BRG) with a focus on enhancing user experiences with accounts, rather than solely easing the burden on preparers or auditors.
BRG Chair Vacancy
We are seeking an inspiring leader to chair the Better Reporting Group, focused on the improvement of local authority and related wider public sector financial reporting. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of local authority financial reporting and make a meaningful, lasting contribution to the public sector.
The Better Reporting Group is dedicated to identifying and addressing challenges in local authority financial reporting through innovative solutions, whether by proposing amendments to the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting for the United Kingdom (the Code), or assisting to develop practical guidance to enhance its application.
As Chair, you will lead the group in identifying priorities, fostering collaboration among members, and delivering high-quality recommendations to the Code and guidance that improve the value of local authority accounts to users. You will also receive support from the CIPFA Secretariat team to assist you in delivering your role effectively.
The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of local authority accounting and financial reporting, strong leadership skills, and a track record of building consensus across diverse perspectives.
This is a voluntary position, with the time commitment varying depending on meeting schedules, but expected to average 2-3 hours per month. This includes bi-monthly meetings and occasional ad hoc engagements. While most meetings are held online, reasonable expenses will be covered for any in-person attendance. To apply, please submit your CV and a brief cover letter detailing your suitability for the role to policy.technical@cipfa.org by Sunday 19 January 2025. For further information, contact a member of the Better Reporting Group Secretariat team at policy.technical@cipfa.org.
Vision
Local authority accounts provide users with the information they require in a timely manner.
Mission
Recommend practical measures that improve the value of local authority accounts to users.
Topics for investigation
- Asset valuation
- Pensions reporting
- Aligning government returns & accounts
- Materiality
- Summary accounts & outturn reports
- Financial Instruments
- Infrastructure assets
- Group accounts
- Guide to local authority accounts
- Narrative & performance reporting
- Statutory overrides
- Model/example accounts
- Move to IPSAS
- Publication dates, inspection periods and objections
- Sustainability reporting
If you have any questions or suggestions for the group please email them to Policy.Technical@cipfa.org.
Interested in joining?
The core group comprises nine members, but additional participants will be invited for specific projects, such as statutory overrides. The BRG plans to convene at least five times annually (January, March, July, September, November), with members conducting supplementary research between meetings.
If you're interested in contributing to the BRG, either as a permanent member or for a specific project, please email Policy.Technical@cipfa.org expressing your interest, preferred involvement, and a brief professional background.
Governance arrangements
The Better Reporting Group sits as a permanent working group under CIPFA LASAAC.