GEORGE NEWS - George Mayor Jackie von Brandis and Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw officially welcomed the newly appointed chairperson of the George municipal audit committee, Louise Stevens, at an introductory meeting on 22 May.
Stevens was appointed as chairperson on 24 April.
The meeting was an opportunity for the new chairperson to engage with the mayor, municipal manager, the internal audit team and the directors of the municipality.
The discussions focused on key challenges and opportunities facing the municipality and explored ways in which the audit committee can offer strategic oversight and guidance.
Stevens has more than two decades of extensive internal auditing experience. She is a certified internal auditor, holds a certification in control self-assessment and is certified in risk management assurance through the Institute of Internal Auditors.
She currently also serves as chairperson of the audit committee at Cape Agulhas Municipality and as a member of the audit committee for the Western Cape Provincial Government (Jobs Cluster).
Von Brandis said she was confident in Stevens' leadership and expertise.
"Her depth of knowledge and impressive track record in governance and internal audit will add immense value to our oversight structures. We look forward to working closely with her and the committee to strengthen our accountability and service delivery," she said.
Stevens said that it was a privilege to take up the role and engage with the dynamic and committed leadership team.
"The audit committee plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public resources. I look forward to supporting the municipality in achieving its strategic goals and serving the people of George with integrity," Stevens said.
The municipal audit committee is an independent advisory body that performs a range of oversight responsibilities as stipulated in the MFMA, the Local Government: Municipal Systems Amendment Act (2011), the Municipal Structures Amendment Act (2021), and in accordance with its charter as approved by the council. The committee also acts as the municipality's performance management audit committee.
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