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romanhaluszczak4

Support an Independent Inquiry into CIPFA's Future



I have now had time to digest the replies CIPFA made to my 2024 AGM questions.


I am now convinced more than ever that we need an independent inquiry into CIPFA'S future and trust you will support me.

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Dear Chief Executive of CIPFA


I have reviewed CIPFA's answers to my July 2024 AGM questions and the replies are very concerning 😟.


The failure of the CIPFA Connect Scheme does not appear to have been even reported to the Charity Commission by CIPFA Council.


The CIPFA Council allowed the departed Chief Executive several external positions including his own management consultancy!


This is completely unacceptable and against the principles of good Corporate governance yet the CIPFA Council allowed this to happen!


The CIPFA Council has lost its credibility.


The CIPFA financial performance in 2023 was woeful providing a contribution of only £70k falling from a £1.1m contribution in the previous year.


The Financial plans for 2024 are fanciful and the CIPFA Council's attempt to justify its governance decisions are unsustainable and completely unacceptable.


The CIPFA Council is supposed to act in the best interests of CIPFA members but unfortunately it has proved far too timid and impotent in this role.


Indepence, inclusivity, integrity and honesty are crucial for the CIPFA Council.


Unfortunately the CIPFA Council has failed in its responsibilities to its members and must be reformed. It has not effectively challenged the CIPFA Executive.


You must take action to resolve these matters.


It is therefore clear from the reponses to my questions posed to the July 2024 CIPFA AGM that CIPFA faces severe governance problems, financial losses, and the departure of experienced staff, several steps should be taken to address and mitigate these issues effectively:


I am therefore formally requesting that the CIPFA Chief Executive instigates an independent inquiry into CIPFA'S finance and governance problems reporting to all its members by the end of January 2025.


The inquiry needs to focus on the following areas:


1. Conduct an Immediate Assessment


Internal Audit: Initiate a thorough internal audit to understand the extent of governance issues and financial losses. This audit should identify the root causes and areas that need immediate attention.

Staff Feedback: Gather feedback from current and departing staff to identify common concerns and areas where governance and management can be improved.


2. Strengthen Governance Structure

Review Governance Policies: Reevaluate the existing governance policies and structures. Ensure that they are robust and in line with best practices.

Board Training: Provide training for board members on governance, financial oversight, and ethical responsibilities.

Independent Oversight: Consider bringing in independent experts to oversee and guide the governance reforms.


3. Financial Management and Transparency

Financial Review: Engage financial experts to review the charity’s financial management practices and develop a plan to stem losses and stabilize finances.

Transparency: Increase financial transparency by regularly publishing financial reports and updates to stakeholders.


4. Leadership and Staffing

Leadership Evaluation: Assess the performance and suitability of the current leadership team. This may involve replacing or restructuring leadership roles.


Retention Strategies: Develop strategies to retain experienced staff, such as improving working conditions, offering professional development opportunities, and addressing any identified concerns.


5. Stakeholder Communication

Transparent Communication: Communicate openly with stakeholders, including donors, members, and partners, about the challenges and the steps being taken to address them.

Engage Stakeholders: Actively engage stakeholders in the reform process to rebuild trust and confidence.


6. Strategic Planning

Long-term Strategy: Develop a comprehensive long-term strategy that addresses governance, financial stability, and organizational growth.

Crisis Management Plan: Implement a crisis management plan to handle immediate issues and prevent future crises.


7. External Support and Partnerships

Consultants and Advisors: Bring in external consultants or advisors with expertise in non-profit governance and financial management.

Partnerships: Strengthen or form new partnerships with other organizations to share resources and knowledge.


8. Regulatory Compliance

Ensure Compliance: Ensure the charity is in full compliance with all regulatory requirements. This may involve liaising with relevant regulatory bodies and making necessary adjustments to policies and practices.


9. Monitoring and Evaluation

Regular Monitoring: Establish a system for regular monitoring and evaluation of governance practices and financial health.

Adjustments and Improvements:


CIPFA must be prepared to make ongoing adjustments and improvements based on monitoring results and feedback.


By taking these steps, CIPFA can address its governance problems, stabilize its financial situation, and work towards rebuilding a strong and effective organization.


In the light of these issues I expect CIPFA to agree to such an inquiry by the end of August 2024.


I also urge all CIPFA members to support my request for such an inquiry.


The future of the Institute is at stake.


Yours Faithfully


Roman Haluszczak


CIPFA member



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