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Appendix B

Guidance for Overview and Scrutiny Chairman

Key Duties and Responsibilities may include

·         To chair the meetings of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee ensuring each committee member and visiting members have the opportunity to contribute.

·         To preside over the agenda setting process.

·         To maintain an overview of the work programme of the Committee in order to ensure effective co-ordination and progress of all work.

·         To develop a clear understanding of the Committee’s terms of reference, the scope and range of services for which it is responsible and Council policies in respect of those services.

·         To encourage overview and scrutiny members to develop the necessary skills to contribute effectively to the work of the Committee and to work with officers

·         To initiate and develop constructive relationships with the Executive, especially with relevant portfolio holders, senior officers and partners.

·         To engage partner agencies in the Committee’s work to promote a constructive approach to overview and scrutiny.

·         To attend meetings of the Overview and Scrutiny Coordinating Committee

·         To contribute to the management and development of the overview and scrutiny function.

·         To attend when requested meetings of the Executive when items relevant to the Committee are being considered.

·         To liaise and communicate on a regular basis with relevant officers, particularly the Overview and Scrutiny officer team, and specialists to ensure the receipt of appropriate advice to inform effective overview and scrutiny.

·         To encourage the involvement of all interested parties and stakeholders, individuals voluntary and community groups in overview and scrutiny matters.

Key Skills and Knowledge

·         Advanced chairing skills.

·         Project Management

·         Facilitation Skills

·         Good ambassadorial skills representing and championing the overview and scrutiny function inside and outside the Council. 

·         Listening and questioning skills.

·         High standard of communication skills with officers, Councillors, co-optees, partners, external bodies and members of the public.

·         Good presentation and public speaking skills.

·         Ability to obtain and weigh up evidence and help the Committee to make quality recommendations based on that evidence.