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Independent External Chairperson - Audit & Risk Committee

About the Organisation 

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) is the independent regulatory authority responsible for safeguarding the integrity and reputation of Irish horseracing. 

 

The IHRB makes and enforces the Rules of Racing, licenses participants and racecourses, oversees integrity and anti-doping programmes, and help to ensure that Irish racing operates to the highest standards of fairness, safety and public confidence. 

 

The organisation operates within the framework of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and plays a central role in maintaining Ireland’s international reputation as a leading jurisdiction for Thoroughbred racing. 

 

The Board has established an Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) in accordance with the Code of Practice to support it in fulfilling its responsibilities in relation to governance, risk management, internal control and financial reporting.  Further information may be found in our Statement of Strategy 2024 – 2027 or our annual report. 

The Role 

The Board now seeks to appoint an independent external member who will serve as Chairperson of the Committee, bringing significant expertise in financial oversight, risk management and public sector governance. 


This appointment takes effect on 1 January 2027. 

The ARC provides independent advice and assurance to the Board regarding:

  • Risk management                 
  • Internal control systems
  • Financial Reporting
  • Internal and external audit
  • Compliance with statutory and governance obligations
Key Responsibilities 

The Chairperson will lead the work of the Audit and Risk Committee and ensure that it provides effective scrutiny, challenge and advice to the Board. In particular, the Chairperson will:

 

  • Lead and manage the work of the Audit and Risk Committee in accordance with its Terms of Reference and the Code of Practice. 

  • Ensure the Committee supports the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities in relation to governance, risk management, internal control, financial reporting and audit oversight. 

  • Oversee the Committee’s review of the organisation’s systems of risk management and internal control, including the risk management framework, risk appetite and risk register. 

  • Oversee the Committee’s engagement with internal and external audit, including review of audit plans, audit findings and management responses. 

  • Ensure appropriate scrutiny of the organisation’s financial reporting, including review of the draft financial statements before their recommendation to the Board. 

  • Support the Board in its annual review of the effectiveness of the organisation’s system of internal control and the preparation of the Statement on Internal Control included in the annual report. 

  • Ensure that the Committee receives and evaluates appropriate assurance regarding governance, risk management, internal control and compliance with statutory and governance obligations. 

  • Report regularly to the Board on the work of the Committee, including preparation of an annual report summarising the Committee’s work and its conclusions regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the organisation’s risk management, internal control and audit arrangements. 

  • Maintain effective engagement with the Head of Internal Audit and the external auditors (the Comptroller and Auditor General). 

  • Promote open and constructive engagement between the Committee, the Board, executive management, internal audit and external auditors. 

Independence Requirement 

Applicants must be able to demonstrate independence of judgement and freedom from relationships or circumstances that could materially interfere with the exercise of their responsibilities as an independent member of the IHRB. 

 

In addition, given the regulatory role of the IHRB, applicants must satisfy the organisation’s specific independence requirements. Applicants must not: 

  • be, or ever have been, members of the Turf Club or Irish National Hunt Steeplechase CLG; or 

  • have personal, familial or business interests in horseracing which could create a conflict with the regulatory functions of the IHRB. 


Essential Experience 

Applicants must demonstrate: 

  • recent and relevant financial management or accounting experience (e.g. accounting, audit or financial oversight) 

  • strong expertise in risk management and internal control 

  • experience of operating at senior leadership or board level, including chairing committee(s) 

  • the ability to exercise independent judgement across governance, finance and risk matters.


Highly Desirable Experience 

  • previous experience chairing or serving on an Audit & Risk Committee   

  • experience in public sector governance 

  • experience within a regulated environment 

  • experience in compliance, financial services or risk management. 

 

Time Commitment 

The Committee typically meets six times per year, usually at the Curragh or online. 

Additional time should be allowed for preparation and review of meeting materials. 

 

Term of Appointment 

Appointments are generally for up to three years, with the possibility of re-appointment. 

 

Remuneration 

The Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee receives a fee equivalent to that of an Independent Director, in line with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Schedule of Fees for State Boards, currently €11,970. Reasonable travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed in accordance with public sector guidelines. 

How to Apply 

This recruitment process is being conducted through an open expression of interest to ensure transparency and to attract candidates with the appropriate skills and experience. The IHRB is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds. 

 

Applications should be sent by email to [email protected] and should include: 

  • a curriculum vitae, and 

  • a short statement outlining relevant experience and suitability for the role. 

 

Closing date for applications is Monday 17 August 2026, 12 noon.