Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority

The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is the body responsible for the regulation and administration of MPs’ pay and business costs. IPSA plays a vital role in supporting democracy and maintaining public confidence in Parliament. Its purpose is to ensure that the use of public money in support of MPs’ duties is fair, transparent and effective. IPSA’s work is overseen by the Speaker’s Committee for the IPSA (SCIPSA). The Committee has a responsibility to ensure that IPSA’s funding is consistent with the efficient and cost-effective discharge of its functions.

SCIPSA is now seeking to appoint two new Board Members to the Board of IPSA: one who has recently served as a Member of Parliament and another who is eligible to act as a statutory auditor under the Companies Act 2006. These are distinctive and high-impact opportunities to contribute to the governance and strategic direction of IPSA at a crucial point in its development, supporting a regulatory model that balances public assurance with a responsive and modern service for MPs and their staff.

The successful candidate for the former MP position will bring parliamentary experience, an understanding of the political environment, and the ability to provide insight into the needs and challenges of elected members. This person will play a key role in shaping how IPSA supports Parliament, particularly during a time of organisational transformation. The individual must have served as an MP but not currently hold a seat in the House of Commons.  The statutory auditor role requires a senior qualified statutory auditor with experience in audit, risk, and financial governance at Board level. The successful candidate will be a member of a Recognised Supervisory Body and eligible to act as a statutory auditor under the relevant legislation. A key responsibility of this role is to chair IPSA’s Audit and Risk Assurance Committee, advising the organisation on matters of internal control, assurance, and accountability, and helping to drive improvements across IPSA’s audit and governance frameworks.

SCIPSA recognises that a diverse Board brings a wealth of perspectives and strengthens IPSA’s decision-making. The Speaker’s Committee is committed to fostering an inclusive culture and strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The Committee believes that diversity is essential to effectively serving the public and Parliament.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference GBTKB (Former MP) & GBTKC (Statutory Auditor). Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by midnight on 6 July 2025.