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Honorary Treasurer (Trustee)

Foundation for Science and Technology

The Foundation for Science and Technology is at the heart of the UK’s science and technology policy landscape. For nearly 50 years, we have provided an independent platform bringing together Parliamentarians, civil servants, industry leaders, researchers and charities to explore the most pressing issues shaping the future of science, innovation and public policy.

From artificial intelligence and quantum technologies, to net zero, research culture and skills, the Foundation convenes informed, cross-sector debate and supports the development of future leaders across the UK science and technology ecosystem.

As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2027, we are seeking an Honorary Treasurer to join our Trustee Board and play a key role in supporting the Foundation’s continued impact and sustainability.

The role

As Honorary Treasurer, you will be a full member of the Trustee Board, sharing collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the Foundation.

This is a non-executive role, focused on governance, oversight and constructive challenge. As a trustee, you will contribute to the stewardship of the Foundation, helping to ensure its financial sustainability, integrity and long-term success.

In addition to your general responsibilities as a trustee, you will:

• Provide oversight and assurance on the Foundation’s financial position, ensuring appropriate controls and compliance with charity law and good practice
• Support the Board in scrutinising financial reporting, including budgets, forecasts and annual accounts
• Offer insight and constructive challenge on financial planning, risk and long-term sustainability
• Contribute to Board-level thinking on income generation, including sponsorship and grants
• Act as a source of financial insight and support to fellow trustees and the Chief Executive

About you

You will bring:

• Senior financial expertise, whether from accountancy, finance leadership or equivalent experience
• Experience of financial oversight and governance
• An understanding of, or interest in, the charity sector
• The ability to work effectively as part of a Board, providing both support and appropriate challenge
• An interest in science, technology, research or innovation policy

Just as importantly, you will bring sound judgement, curiosity and a collaborative approach, with the ability to see both detail and the wider strategic picture.

Time commitment

Approximately three hours per month, plus attendance at three Board meetings per year, typically in London.

Why join us

This is an opportunity to contribute to an organisation that sits at the interface of science, technology and public policy in the UK, helping to ensure that important decisions are informed by evidence, insight and cross-sector collaboration.

Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.

As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances. 

• Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.

• Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.

Role Summary 

The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will: 

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees. 

• Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.

• Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning 

• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance. 

• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies 

• Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy

• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action. 

• Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)

• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.

• Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.

• Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

• Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants 

• Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero

• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report

• Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.

The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.

Person Specification 

The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation. 

Essential 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas

• Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information 

Desirable 

• A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations. 

• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer. 

• Good communication and competent IT skills 

• Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills. 

About Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide. 

What We Do 

RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including: 

• France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris 

• Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base) 

• Northern Iraq: Duhok 

• Serbia: Belgrade Barracks 

• Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp 

• Turkey: Istanbul 

• Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border

• Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides) 

• Palestine: Gaza

• Egypt: Cairo

Our Approach 

RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.

Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.

Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts. 

Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers. 

We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care. 

Advocacy & Awareness 

RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action. 

We’re looking for an outstanding trustee who is a bold and visionary leader in their field to join our Board of Trustees. You will help us achieve our vision of making sure our members have an outstanding experience during their time at UCL and at one of the best student unions in the world.

We’re looking for an inspirational leader in a field related to one of our services or values to join us in our mission. That mission is to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for better.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for setting the mission, vision and values of the Students’ Union and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose through our 2025-2030 Strategy, Making More Happen. The Trustees ensure development of, and agree, a long-term strategy and approve and monitor plans and budgets to deliver the strategy. There are five meetings a year, and as an External Trustee you will work with our Board and Senior Management Team to affect change and ensure everything we do for our 50,000 members is led by our values to be Community Building, Empowering, Inclusive, Democratic, Bold, Sustainable and Fun.

To apply please send a CV and cover letter by email no later than 17.00 on Tuesday 5 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Tuesday 19 or Thursday 21 May 2026 and will join our Board for a four-year term beginning in June 2026.

Please note that this position is only open to candidates who are neither a student, alumnus or employee of UCL.

We’re looking for a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. Everyone deserves a safe, clean, dignified place to call home. Join us, and help end housing poverty.

• Role: Treasurer / Trustee. In addition to the specific responsibilities stated below, you will assume all the usual duties of a Trustee.

• Volunteer: Trustees are volunteers. The role is not paid, however reasonable expenses may be claimed e.g. local travel.

• Time: Three year term, with annual review. Estimated 0.5-2 days per month, including attending six Board meetings per year. You may also be a sub-committee member and attend specific meetings.

• Location: Remote

ROLE OVERVIEW

The role involves monitoring the financial administration of the charity and reporting to the Board at regular intervals on its state of financial health. The Treasurer will assist the team in setting AzuKo’s strategy, support AzuKo’s staff and ensure all financial affairs are legal, constitutional and within accepted accounting practice.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure there is financial stability with effective and efficient administration

• Monitor and report on the financial health of the charity (balance sheet, cash flow, fundraising performance etc) at Trustee meetings

• Prepare and process payroll for employees

• Oversee production of financial reports / returns, accounts and audits

• Ensure proper records are kept and effective financial procedures are in place

• Participate in other tasks as arise from time to time, such as interviewing new Trustees, helping with fundraising events

• Act as an ambassador for our cause and for AzuKo

QUALITIES

Essential

• Proven ability to communicate financial information

• Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement

• Competent IT and spreadsheet skills

• Experience of payroll and accounting systems

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

Desirable

• Qualified accountant with demonstrated commercial awareness

• Knowledge the charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP)

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

We expect all team members to share our values. All AzuKo trustees are active in advocating, fundraising and networking.

THE IMPACT OF THIS ROLE

Our work supports the homeless, landless and those living in housing poverty. Contributing to AzuKo means building a fairer world for all.

WHY BE A TRUSTEE

As a small charity AzuKo recognises the great work, time and commitment of our Board. This position is an opportunity to:

• Give back to a charity that is dedicated to creating positive impact

• Enhance your CV and open doors to new career paths

• Make a difference to those in need

• Learn about the strategy side of charities

• Utilise your experience and skills within the voluntary sector

• Work with an interesting team from diverse backgrounds

HOW TO APPLY

Application is by CV and supporting statement outlining the reasons for your interest in this Treasurer role. Submit your application via our website.

• Application deadline: Rolling
• Interviews via telephone and Zoom

AzuKo is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age. We value and respect all differences in people (seen and unseen).

Thames Reach is a leading London-based charity with a particular focus on rough sleeping, and helping people who are, have been, or are at risk of rough sleeping to find decent homes, build supportive relationships and lead fulfilling lives. The charity provides innovative services aimed at preventing rough sleeping, intervening where people are sleeping rough, and helping people to recover from the impact of life on the streets. As well as street outreach work, our services include tenancy support, emergency shelters, day services, hostels and accommodation, and help with health and employment. We work across London and the South East.

Thames Reach is a strong organisation that is growing in response to need. Our services are rooted in our understanding of the issues surrounding street homelessness, and we use this understanding to influence decision making at a local, regional, and national level. We have an excellent reputation for effective service delivery, working with people who may have very high levels of need, and using our experience of delivering services to develop and improve our approach. The majority of our services are delivered to local and regional authorities on a contract basis and we understand that our continued effectiveness requires us to sustain and develop our financial viability; and to retain and grow our excellent employees and volunteers.

We have just over 400 employees and around 150volunteers, and our organisational turnover is around £28 million per annum.

We have an effective and long-standing non-executive Board with a wealth of relevant experience in both the public and commercial sectors. They provide valuable support to the Executive team, as well as attending around five Board meetings every year, sitting on one of the three Board sub-committees (Finance, Audit and Fundraising; Services; Governance and People) that meet around four times a year. Board members are also asked to participate in an annual away day, usually in the autumn, with separate preparatory visits to our services.

We are now looking for up to three new members. As well as interest in and commitment to ending street homelessness as a board member and the ability and interest in providing strategic oversight for the organisation, we are hoping to recruit members with specific skills in the following areas:

People/ Human Resources

Candidates with current understanding of the recruitment, management, retention and development of staff (and volunteers) in an organisation of Thames Reach’s size.

Lived experience

Candidates with lived experience of street homelessness and/or service use (for example substance misuse or mental health services), and an understanding of how this lived experience can improve and develop services.

Finance/accounting

Candidates with knowledge of financial management in medium large complex organisations, particularly those with knowledge of Charity Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) requirements.

Communications

Candidates with current knowledge of approaches to internal and external organisational communication, with understanding of both conventional and new media. 

Thames Reach is committed to achieving a diversity that reflects the communities we serve. We value, respect, and celebrate diversity. We welcome and encourage applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their history of homelessness, sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, or religious belief. We particularly welcome applicants who may have experience of homelessness and/or of using services that support people with complex support needs.

Become a Trustee at Wessex Cancer Support

Use your expertise to change lives across Wessex

Every year, over 14,000 people in Wessex hear the words no one wants to hear: “You have cancer.” At Wessex Cancer Support, we’re here to make sure no one faces that moment - or the months and years that follow - alone. We offer free, personalised emotional and wellbeing support through our four centres, outreach work and online services, helping people live well with and beyond cancer.

We’re now looking to recruit new Trustees to join our Board at a pivotal moment in our 45-year journey. As we deliver our five-year strategy and respond to rising demand, your insight and leadership will help shape the future of cancer support across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome people with professional or commercial experience in areas such as:

• Fundraising
• Marketing & brand
• IT, CRM or data management
• HR & people

But above all, we’re looking for people who share our values - compassion, purpose, inclusivity and collaboration - and who want to make a meaningful difference.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and we are particularly keen to build an ethnically diverse Board to ensure we fully represent our communities.

Whether you’re an experienced trustee or stepping into governance for the first time, we’ll support you with a structured induction, mentoring and ongoing development.

What you’ll do

As a Trustee, you’ll help steer the strategic direction of the charity, support our CEO and senior team, and ensure we remain financially resilient and fit for the future.
You’ll bring your expertise, your curiosity and your commitment to helping us reach more people affected by cancer.

Time commitment:

• Four Board meetings a year
• One annual strategy day
• Optional sub-committee involvement
• Occasional events and ad hoc discussions

This is a voluntary role; reasonable expenses are covered.

Ready to make a real impact?

To apply, send your CV and a covering letter outlining why you’d like to join us and what you’ll bring to the Board.