Linked to our experiences in Special Investigations we also have knowledge and expertise in the area of Corporate Governance, especially as it applies to the Public Sector in the light of the Nolan Report.  We are also expert in the implications of the creation of the Standards Board for England and local Standards Committees.

 

Effective corporate governance is however much wider that the common perception that it is about conduct and behaviour or managing conflicts of interest.  It embraces the effective management of risks, an organisations approach to transparency and fairness, the allocation of rights and responsibilities and above all a recognition of the need to engage and consult with the wider community.  When it goes wrong it may not just lead to financial loss or public challenge of decisions taken - it can at its worst result in deep organisational malaise, poor performance, mistrust and huge reputational damage.

 

Throughout over 5 years at Linconshire, David Bowles had to deal with many instances of attempted breaches of the law, improper decision taking and conduct which was in breach of the then National Code. When logic and diplomacy failed he had to take tough action within the Council to stop the member governance impacting upon the Services of the Council.   He has direct hands on experience of dealing with an exceptionally wide range of issues from the relatively minor through to corruption.   He has expert knowledge of not only the governance arrangements which need to be in place but also the importance of the cultural change and organisational development programmes necessary to transform a Council.

 

As a result of experiences in Lincolnshire David Bowles has

• Advised many Chief Executives on governance arrangement and specifically the roles of the various Statutory Officers ( including Monitoring Officer and Section 151 Officer);
• Led a Council through a Public Interest Report and assisted members develop an Action Plan to respond to the member issues highlighted;
• Worked with external agencies including External Auditors, the Audit Commission and the Police on major reviews and investigations;

In addition we have advised a range of Councils on their constitutions.  David Bowles has spoken regularly on Governance issues and is familiar with the problems and opportunities highlighted in the SOLACE report 'Managing in a Political Environment'.