What does the term "duty of care" signify in the role of a certifying officer?

The term "duty of care" in the context of a certifying officer's role emphasizes the importance of acting in the best interests of the agency. This means that certifying officers are expected to exercise a reasonable level of caution and responsibility when making decisions or taking actions that affect the agency's operations and finances. This obligation encompasses ensuring that all expenditures are necessary, lawful, and serve the agency's goals, thereby safeguarding the agency’s assets and reputation.

This concept ties closely to the overarching responsibilities of a certifying officer, who must evaluate various factors when certifying payments or obligations. The duty of care requires that they be diligent in their oversight roles to prevent negligence and protect the agency against potential legal or financial repercussions.

While compliance with laws and minimizing financial risks are important aspects of a certifying officer's responsibilities, the primary focus of the duty of care is on the commitment to act thoughtfully and in the agency’s best interests.