The Role and Responsibilities of the Council Lay Member

Personal Attributes:

Candidates will need to provide evidence in their application form of relevant knowledge and experience. In particular, we are seeking candidates with:

Relevant experience at a senior (executive or non-executive) level g. board level or equivalent
Understanding and knowledge of corporate governance, strategy and policy development, risk management and financial controls.
General understanding of and interest in professional regulation, the veterinary professions, consumer protection and, animal health and welfare.
Ideally has a level of financial expertise and business management background

Criteria for Competence:

Competence	Evidence
Public interest and accountability	Commitment to the Nolan Principles of Public Life Overriding commitment to promoting high professional standards Willing to maintain and uphold accountability A high level of probity, integrity, discretion and fairness and the ability to maintain confidentiality Able to uphold the principles of effective corporate governance
Intellectual flexibility, sound judgement and motivation	Thinks clearly, analytically and creatively Considers the bigger picture as well as detail Weighs up other people’s ideas Has own ideas Objective - able to analyse complex information and situations before reaching a conclusion Willing to modify thinking in the light of new information or dialogue High levels of motivation and a willingness to constantly review and improve performance Tests and probes constructively and effectively to achieve the best outcomes for the RCVS’s regulatory and statutory functions
Effective influencing and communication	Can influence and persuade others using well-reasoned arguments Capacity to give and take advice Respects the views of others Debates cogently, using evidence to support views Open to change

Strategic direction

Capacity to develop the strategic aims and objectives of the RCVS, without being unduly influenced by individual interest groups

Ability to reflect and review strategy

direction in the light of evidence and feedback gathered during implementation.

Effective team working

Ability to build constructive working relationships with a broad range of individuals working in different roles including: fellow College Council and

Committee members, staff and executive team and external experts and advisors.