Vacancy

Volunteer Treasurer

We are looking for a new Trustee to take on the role of Treasurer, who will provide solid and consistent support throughout this period of change. At present, the Board of Trustees comprises 12 individuals with a range of backgrounds, interests and expertise. The post holder will work closely with members of the Finance Committee and present the accounts at Board level.

The Foundation currently employs 14 members of staff and the office is lively and informal with a conscientious and diligent staff. We are fortunate to be supported by a variety of volunteers, most of whom have been involved for several years.

Role

Our finance department is in need of development in order to cope more effectively with a complex range of restricted funds. The time consuming process of computerising our manual system is underway and we are keen to improve and develop the range of management accounts presented to the Board of Trustees, senior management and project officers. The particular areas on which the Treasurer will need to concentrate are:

• cash flow analysis
• budgeting on the basis of voluntary income
• forecasting and strategic planning
• effective allocation of overheads and core costs to project budgets

Essential Requirements

• qualified accountant or relevant professional background
• fully conversant with charity accounting and SORP requirements
• experience of working as with small to medium sized charities
• knowledge and experience of accounting software (Sage Line 50)

Personal Specification

• an interest in the work of the Foundation, particularly young people and education
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• ability to manage change sensitively
• ‘can-do’ spirit and desire to work with a small and committed, but informal group

Time Commitment

Initially the post holder will need to familiarise themselves with the Foundation’s work and finance systems which will mean spending time with the Director of Finance and Administration and the Finance Committee.

It is expected that after this initial period, the post holder will spend half to one day a week, on average, helping to prepare and develop the management accounts for presentation at formal meetings:

• Finance Committee: once every six weeks for 2-3 hours, during office hours
• Board of Trustees: once every quarter from 6-8pm.

In addition, it is essential that the post holder is accessible by telephone or email to offer advice and answer queries as and when necessary. It is also important that they are flexible during particularly busy periods, such as preparation for audit and budgeting for the new financial year.