Accounting volunteer roles

The Rio Cinema is looking to appoint up to four trustees, including a Treasurer, to complement its existing board.

The Rio Cinema is one of London’s most iconic independent cultural landmarks and the UK’s oldest cinema, operating continuously on the same site since 1909. As we mark our 50th anniversary of being named the Rio and operating as an independent charity (charity no. 277415) run by and for the community, we are looking to appoint up to four new trustees, including a Treasurer, to our board to help steward our legacy and ensure the future sustainability of the Rio for the next 50 years. 
We are looking to strengthen our board with individuals who can bring their professional skills, strategic mindset, creative problem-solving and diverse networks to help us thrive in an ever-changing cultural and economic landscape.

We are particularly interested in recruiting trustees with the following backgrounds:

• Finance & Accounting: We are specifically seeking a Treasurer who is a finance professional (ideally a qualified accountant or CFO) to provide high-level oversight of our financial health, statutory reporting, and long-term resilience (see here for a more detailed role description).
  
  
  
• Property & Capital Projects: We’re looking to undertake a number of capital projects on our Grade II-listed building over the next several years and we are seeking a trustee with experience in property development or managing large-scale renovation/restoration projects. Experience with heritage/listed buildings is a plus, but not a requirement.
  
  
  
• Fundraising: We are seeking a trustee with a proven track record in securing philanthropic income, corporate partnerships, and public grants within the cultural sector. Experience navigating major funding bodies (such as the BFI, Arts Council England or the National Lottery Heritage Fund), cultivating individual donors, trusts and foundations, or leading capital campaign strategies is very desirable.
  
  
  
• Legal: We are looking for a trustee with a legal background to act as a sounding board for the board and management. You do not need to be a practising expert in charity law, but your general legal knowledge and analytical mindset will help us evaluate risk, sense-check decisions, and ensure good corporate governance across our operations and upcoming projects (see here for a more detailed role description). 

• Term: 3 years (renewable once)

  We want our board to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. We warmly welcome applicants from people of all backgrounds, and encourage applications from individuals who bring lived experiences and perspectives that reflect the vibrant, multi-cultural, and intersectional nature of our communities. We encourage applicants from Black & global majority backgrounds, and applications from younger people who can bring a generationally different lens to our Board.

  As a community-led organisation, we’re particularly interested in applications from Rio Cinema members and those with strong connections to the borough of Hackney. 

  We recognise that lived experience is as valuable as professional expertise and we are committed to removing barriers to participation. Previous board experience is not required; a comprehensive induction pack, mentorship from existing trustees, and ongoing governance learning will be provided. Whether you are an experienced trustee or want to take your first step at board level, we would love to hear from you.

  There will be an online info session held at 12:00 on 19 June for those who want to learn more about the roles and ask any questions.  Link in attachment.
  
  

More than one in five people in the UK are living in poverty. Millions of households are struggling to afford essentials, falling behind on bills or going without food. Financial insecurity affects people across every part of society and remains one of the defining social challenges of our time.

At Turn2us, we believe poverty is not inevitable. Every year, we support millions of people to improve their financial security through practical help, direct support and long-term systems change. Working alongside people with lived experience, we combine immediate action with ambitious efforts to address the root causes of financial insecurity.

We are now seeking a Trustee to join our Board and serve as Chair of our Finance, Investment and Audit Committee and Honorary Treasurer.

This is a significant governance leadership role at an important point in Turn2us’s journey. As we look towards our next strategic chapter, the Board will play a vital role in balancing long-term ambition with strong financial stewardship and governance. Turn2us is well positioned, with a diversified asset base including property and investments, alongside Elizabeth Finn Homes, our care home business, which contributes around one-third of the charity’s income.

We are looking for a qualified accountant with substantial experience of financial leadership, governance and risk oversight. Experience within the charity sector would be valuable, as would familiarity with areas such as investment management, property, social housing or care services.

Alongside technical expertise, we are seeking someone who brings sound judgement, curiosity, humility and a collaborative approach. You will provide constructive challenge and strategic insight, helping the Board and executive team navigate an increasingly complex financial environment while ensuring the organisation remains focused on delivering impact for people facing financial insecurity.

Our Trustees come from a broad range of professional and personal backgrounds. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the communities we serve and particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of financial insecurity and those from communities currently underrepresented at Board level.

This is an opportunity to contribute to an ambitious organisation tackling one of society’s most pressing challenges, working alongside an engaged Board and executive team to help ensure everyone has enough to live on.

Time commitment

The Chair of the Finance, Investment & Audit Committee is expected to commit ten days per year on average, including preparation for and attendance at quarterly in-person board meetings (held in our London office), subcommittees and occasional strategy sessions.

How to apply

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. 

Applications should include a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages), explaining your motivation for applying for to become a trustee at Turn2us, along with how you meet the Person Specification.

If you would like an informal discussion about the opportunity, or would like any adjustments made to the process to accommodate your needs, please email Mark Crowley at Tall Roots.

Pact is seeking a values-driven finance leader to join our Board of Trustees and chair our Financial, Risk and Audit Committee (FRAC), succeeding our highly respected outgoing Chair who retires this Autumn.

About Pact

Pact is a successful, growing and highly regarded Catholic charity whose mission is to support prisoners, people with convictions and their families to make a fresh start. We operate in some of the most complex and high-risk environments in the voluntary sector, delivering critical front-line services across prisons, probation services, courts and communities, while managing public-sector contracts with the Ministry of Justice and NHS alongside philanthropic grants and donations.

About the role

As FRAC Chair, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the Board to make confident strategic financial decisions, steward resources responsibly and respond effectively to a changing commissioning landscape. Working closely with the CEO, Deputy CEO and Director of Finance & IT, you will lead Committee oversight across:

• External audit

• Financial risk management

• Internal scrutiny and control

• Statutory, tax and Charity Commission compliance

• Treasury and investment strategy

Alongside this, you will share collective responsibility with fellow Trustees for the strategic direction, governance and integrity of the charity.

About you

You are a qualified accountant with senior-level experience in finance, audit, risk or governance (for example, as a CFO, Finance Director, Finance Partner, Audit Partner or senior risk leader). You bring a strong grasp of financial management, internal control and risk, the ability to interpret complex financial information and challenge constructively, and the interpersonal skills to build positive relationships across the Board and Executive.

Experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector, knowledge of Charities SORP (FRS 102), and previous Trustee or non-executive experience would be highly welcome but are not essential.

While this role is open to people of all faiths and none, as a Catholic charity Pact seeks Trustees whose personal values are aligned with our ethos, including our commitment to ethical investment.

Practicalities

• Term: 3 or 4 years by mutual agreement, renewable up to a maximum of 10 years

• Voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed

• Approximately 45 hours per annum, plus reading and keep-in-touch time

• Board meetings are held near Liverpool Street, London, with hybrid attendance permitted

The Gas Safe Charity is seeking to appoint up to three new Trustees to fill vacancies arising from recent resignations.  The charity has a turnover of around £500k and was established in 2009 as a result of the award of the Concession Agreement for gas registration services to Capita plc, establishing the Gas Safe Register.

The Charity works with key partners to provide direct assistance to vulnerable people at times of need and works with trusted intermediaries in the public and voluntary sectors to promote a greater understanding of the signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

As a Trustee and Director, you will take a strategic overview of the charity’s activities.  There are six Board meetings a year, plus an Awayday.  Trustees are also expected to be on one of the Review Groups overseeing the charity’s projects.

We would like to hear from you if you have skills and experience in the following areas:

· Marketing and communications

· Finance

· General non executive director experience with the ability to focus and advise on broad strategy and projects run by the charity.

The charity is keen to broaden the diversity of the Board and would welcome candidates who can contribute a diversity of representation and thinking, including people from minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities.

Trustees are appointed for an initial three year term, which may be extended to a maximum of nine years.

Deaf Unity is a deaf-led charity that works to empower deaf individuals. We equip deaf students, jobseekers and professionals with the knowledge, confidence and community to succeed in education and employment.

Working closely with our deaf community, we identify the barriers and inequities that deaf people meet as they move from school into education and employment; seek work; and strive to build successful careers. We work with them and with universities, employers and voluntary sector partners to overcome these barriers through carefully tailored, impactful interventions.

Our vision is of a world where every deaf person has an equal chance to study and work, achieve their professional ambitions and contribute their full potential to society.

Purpose of the role

To oversee Deaf Unity’s financial operations, ensuring that the charity remains financially viable and complies with Charity Commission regulations and strong accounting practices at all times, The Treasurer will ensure that proper financial records are kept and that the Board of Trustees understands the financial position at all times. 

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the charity’s financial position
• Present budgets, management accounts and financial statements to the Board
• Help trustees understand financial information and advise on financial implications of the charity’s strategic plans
• Support budgeting and financial planning, including developing and implementing financial policies (e.g. reserves and investment policies),
• Ensure proper financial controls are in place and that proper accounting records are kept
• Oversee the preparation of annual accounts
• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission and HMRC regulations (e.g. Gift Aid)

You will work closely with the CEO, Chair, trustees and staff who are managing day-to-day finance and banking and will be required to attend quarterly meetings of the Finance and Risk sub-group of the Board, in addition to the full Board meeting

What is a trustee?

All trustees share responsibility for running the charity.

This includes:

• Attending board meetings, usually 4 times per year.
• Helping make strategic decisions
• Acting in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries

Trustee responsibilities are set out by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

Skills we are looking for

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of bookkeeping and financial management (e.g. use of XERO, SAGE accounting packages)
• Experience of financial reporting, budgeting and risk management
• An understanding of (or willingness to learn about) charity accounting
• Ability to explain financial information clearly
• Good judgement and decision-making skills
• Interest in supporting deaf communities

Desirable:

• Professional accounting qualification
• Previous experience as a trustee or treasurer
• knowledge of, or interest in, the deaf community.
• BSL skills

What you will gain

• Experience of charity governance
• Board-level leadership experience
• Opportunity to support Deaf communities
• Networking and professional development 

Please send a CV and/or a short expression of interest 

Join the BUBIC Board - Make Real Impact

Shape lives. Strengthen communities.
BUBIC is growing - and we’re looking for Trustees and a Treasurer to help drive our next phase.

Why This Matters

• Peer-led charity transforming lives at the margins
• Strong foundations, ready to scale impact
• High demand – real need, real opportunity

Your Role

• Provide strategic oversight and challenge
• Strengthen governance, sustainability and growth
• (Treasurer) Lead financial oversight and resilience

Are you looking to gain finance experience while making a meaningful impact in the community? Join Hidayah as a finance assistant in this volunteer-based role under the guidance of the treasurer.

Hidayah is a volunteer-led organisation supporting LGBTQI+ Muslims through community support, advocacy, education, and wellbeing initiatives. The finance assistant supports the financial operations of the organisation by helping maintain accurate financial records, assisting with reporting and budgeting, and supporting the treasurer with day-to-day finance administration.

This role is flexible and requires a minimum of 2 hours per week, with occasional additional time required during busy periods or year-end processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Treasurer with financial administration and record-keeping. 

• Input and maintain financial data using Google Sheets and Sage. 

• Organise invoices, receipts, bank statements, and financial documentation. 

• Assist with bank reconciliations and volunteer expense claims. 

• Help prepare monthly financial updates and reports for the board. 

• Support budgeting, audits, year-end preparation, and strategy reporting. 

• Maintain confidentiality and handle financial information responsibly. 

• Attend monthly meetings and provide support where required. 

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

• Basic understanding of finance, bookkeeping, or accounting principles. 

• Good IT skills, particularly using spreadsheets.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy. 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively. 

• Good organisational and communication skills. 

• Experience using accounting software such as Sage (desirable). 

• Commitment to the mission and values of Hidayah. 

Commitment Expected

• Attend periodic online 121s with the treasurer.

• Be available for occasional catch-up meetings with the treasurer and chair. 

• Respond to emails and finance-related tasks promptly. 

• Support accurate financial record-keeping and reporting. 

Benefits of the Role

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact within LGBTQ+ Muslim communities. 

• Gain practical experience in charity finance and governance. 

• Build confidence and strengthen your CV. 

• Opportunity to work with a supportive and passionate volunteer team. 

• Networking, training and professional development opportunities.

Role Type

Unpaid, voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

Commitment and Focus

As Treasurer Trustee, you will support the Board’s oversight of FareShare Yorkshire’s financial governance. Working in close partnership with the Head of Finance & Business, you will help ensure the charity’s finances are well-managed, transparent, and aligned with its strategic objectives.

The Treasurer acts as a critical friend and source of support to the Head of Finance & Business, providing constructive challenge, guidance, and assurance to the Board. You will attend quarterly board meetings (held in Yorkshire) and chair the quarterly Finance Sub-Committee, helping to ensure effective financial governance and clear reporting to the full Board.

About FareShare Yorkshire

FareShare Yorkshire is a charity in its 27th year of operation and has experienced significant growth in recent years. Operating from three sites in Barnsley and Leeds, the organisation delivers surplus food provision services, employability programmes, and runs its own cookery school, The FullCrumb Kitchen. We redistribute enough food for over 100,000 meals every week by taking good surplus food from companies and getting it to where it is needed most.

Key Treasurer Responsibilities

1. Present clear, accurate, and timely financial reports to the Board in a format that supports understanding and effective decision-making, including:

   •  Annual budgets

   • Internal management accounts

   • Annual statutory financial statements

2. Ensure the Board meets its duty to maintain proper accounting records and that financial resources are:

   • Properly controlled

   • Prudently invested

   • Economically and effectively spent in line with good governance, legal and regulatory

     requirements, in liaison with the Head of Finance & Business.

3. Support the development, implementation, and regular review of:

   • Financial reserves policy

   • Cost management approaches

   • Investment policies

4. Advise and support the Board in carrying out its financial responsibilities, providing insight into financial risks, opportunities, and sustainability.

5. Chair the Finance Sub-Committee, setting agendas in partnership with the Head of Finance & Business and ensuring effective financial scrutiny.

6. Provide clear updates and recommendations to the full Board following each Finance Sub-Committee meeting.

7. Scrutinise financial information provided by the Head of Finance & Business and request additional information or clarification where necessary.

8. Support and challenge budget proposals and forecasts presented to the Board.

9. Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including cash flow, reserves, and long-term sustainability.

10. Ensure appropriate financial controls are implemented, adhered to, and regularly reviewed.

11. Advise the Board on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan and major decisions.

12. Support the Head of Finance and Business to:

    • Prepare information for the annual accounts

    • Manage the annual audit process, including liaison with auditors where appropriate.
      
      The Trustee Role:

    • Ensure the charity fulfils its purposes for public benefit by:
      Complying with its governing document.

    • Adhering to charity law and all other applicable legislation.

    • Acting always in the best interests of the charity.

    • Ensuring the responsible management of the charity’s resources.

    • Overseeing and ensuring compliance with statutory accounting and financial reporting requirements.

    • Declaring any conflicts of interest and exercising independent judgement in all decision- making.

    • Acting as an ambassador and advocate for the organisation and upholding its mission, values, and reputation.

    • Representing the Board and organisation at meetings and events, including acting as a spokesperson when required.

    • Safeguarding the wellbeing and interests of employees.

    • Contributing to the development of the organisation’s strategy by providing constructive challenge and insight.

    • Seeking appropriate professional advice where there is potential risk to the organisation or where trustee duties may be impacted.

    • Taking collective responsibility to ensure the legal and financial integrity of the organisation, including to safeguard its assets and long-term sustainability.

    • Ensuring appropriate procedures are in place for the appointment, support, and performance monitoring of the CEO and Senior Leadership Team (SLT).  

    • Attending and actively contributing to Board meetings on a regular basis.

Skills and Experience

We are particularly seeking a Trustee with:

• Senior-level experience in finance, accountancy, audit, or financial management.

• Strong understanding of financial governance, risk management, and internal controls.

• Experience of:

  • -  Budgeting and financial forecasting

  • -  Reviewing management accounts and statutory accounts

  • -  Financial oversight within a charity, public sector, or commercial environment

    (charity experience desirable but not essential)

• Confidence in presenting financial information clearly to non-financial audiences.

• Strong Excel skills and confidence working with financial data (advantageous).

• The ability to provide supportive challenge and constructive scrutiny.

• The credibility to lead financial discussions at board level while working collaboratively

  with staff and fellow Trustees.

Ideal candidates will have:

o A commitment to FareShare Yorkshire’s mission and values.
o Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to high-level decision-making.
o The ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively.
o Time to dedicate to the role, including preparation for and attendance at meetings.

What We Offer
While this is an unpaid voluntary position, we provide:

o Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in your role.
o The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on food insecurity inYorkshire.
o A chance to work alongside a passionate team dedicated to tackling food poverty.

Diversity and Inclusion

FareShare Yorkshire is committed to building a diverse and inclusive board. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who bring new perspectives and lived experience to the table

Behçet’s Disease is an auto-immune disorder which is incurable but can be managed by specialist consultants. It is very rare and can affect any part of the body. It often takes years to diagnose and can be debilitating to the patient. 

Behçet’s Patients Centres (BPC), a charitable company, was formed in 2011 to provide the specialist, multi disciplinary care for patients.

We are seeking to recruit a Finance Director to our Board in order to both increase our experience and skills base and to facilitate effective succession management. This is a volunteer role that offers rewarding experience and the chance to make a difference in the lives of those who are affected by this rare condition.

This is a highly autonomous role that will make a big difference to the Board of Directors and their purpose to provide a service to one of the rarest patient groups in England. We’re looking for someone who can come in and help us build on our achievements and do things even better. You will be responsible for the financial management of the charitable company to ensure we successfully deliver our contractual commitments and thus influence the future of our funding, (we have a contract which runs until March 2028). You will play an important role as a member of the Board of Directors, ensuring they are guided by your financial expertise. This will involve preparing budgets; paying salaries and finances owing to HMRC and invoicing the NHS. We also work collaboratively with Behçet’s UK, the registered charity for patients with Behçet’s Disease and you’ll be building relationships with that charity. 

The time commitment for this role is around 2 to 3 days per month on average, with extra time needed around budgeting and year end accounts. 

Experience Required:

• Proven management and leadership skills
• Proven financial skills in budget preparation and management
• Proven communication skills
• Awareness of both Charity and Data Protection Law
• Computer literate in use of Microsoft products
• Experience of contract performance management
• Flexibility of working hours to attend quarterly Director meetings and the Behçet’s UK Annual Conference

Qualifications Required:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent financial experience. 
• Preferably a qualification with CIMA, ACA or ACCA (or working towards) 
• A UK driving licence and the ability to travel 
• A clean Disclosure & Barring Services check will be undertaken 

The British Handball Association (BHA) is dedicated to supporting, developing and promoting the sport of handball across the United Kingdom. As the Association continues to grow and strengthen its activities, we are seeking a Volunteer Treasurer to help assist the financial management and sustainability of the organisation.

This is a volunteer leadership role suited to someone who values sport and wants to make a meaningful contribution to the continued development of handball in the UK.

About the Role

Working closely with the Chair, Directors, and operational staff, the Treasurer provides robust financial information and guidance to support the Association’s programmes, competitions, events, development initiatives and long-term strategic objectives.

The Treasurer plays an important role in ensuring the Association maintains transparent financial practices and appropriate financial controls, while contributing to wider organisational planning and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide financial oversight and strategic guidance to the Association
• Monitor income generation, expenditure, memberships, sponsorship, grants and funding activity
• Prepare financial reports and updates for meetings
• Support budgeting and financial planning for competitions, events, camps, and development programmes
• Help ensure compliance with relevant UK financial, governance, and sports organisation standards
• Assist with annual accounts preparation and financial reporting requirements
• Maintain appropriate financial controls and record-keeping procedures

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who can contribute not only financial knowledge, but also strategic oversight and leadership.

You may be a great fit if you:

• Have experience in accounting, bookkeeping and/or financial management,
• Are confident preparing and reviewing financial information and helping guide responsible organisational growth
• Can provide balanced, constructive input during discussions and support collaborative decision-making
• Are organised, dependable, and able to exercise sound judgement
• Have an understanding of how National Governing Bodies operate and their role within the sporting landscape
• Want to use your professional skills to help strengthen and shape a developing national sporting organisation

You do not need to be a handball player or official — we welcome applicants from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds who are committed to good governance and the development of sport.

What You’ll Gain

• Experience in sports governance and non-profit financial leadership
• The opportunity to help shape the future growth and development of handball in the UK
• Flexible volunteering that can fit around professional and personal commitments
• A collaborative and supportive environment where your contribution is valued
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the sporting community

Role Description

This is a volunteer role for a Financial Director and trustee. The role will ensure that the financial affairs of the Charity are conducted within legal requirements, accounting conventions and good practice and in conjunction with the General Manager to protect and enhance the financial wellbeing of the Charity. 

Reports to:

Board of Trustees

Major Accountabilities:

• To lead in developing financial plans for the Charity with income and expenditure goals which are attainable within the resources available to the Charity 

• To ensure that the Board is aware of its financial responsibilities and options available 

• To ensure suitable systems for budgeting, financial control, risk management, insurance, and accounting records are in place

• To assist the external accountants with processing more complex transactions, recording capex, raising prepayments and accruals at month-ends and to work with them to ensure compliance with HMRC requirements as appropriate

• To keep Trustees informed about Charity’s finances by written report, at least on a quarterly basis. To communicate with relevant department heads and other staff so as to maintain a clear picture of the financial health of the organisation

• To work with the Charity’s external accountants and auditor/independent examiner to meet external reporting requirements, including grant reporting and the annual financial report to members

• To know, abide by and promote the Charity’s values, policies and objectives, including to external parties. To support appropriate communication between the Board and staff, members and stakeholders

About Us

Earthwatch Europe works to create a world where we live in balance with nature.

We help people to protect the nature around them. We build meaningful nature connections and give people the tools they need to fight for our planet.

Working alongside communities and organisations, we build an understanding and a love of nature and help everyone to protect the natural world. Guided by science and powered by people, we create change through connection.

People are the heart of everything we do. From the classroom to the boardroom and the field to the laboratory, we bring everyone together with the shared goal to protect our planet. We work where we can have the most impact, creating knowledge and inspiring action. We fight for our fragile planet with passion and with science – with our hearts and our minds.

About the Role

Our Board of Trustees provides strategic leadership and strong governance, helping to shape Earthwatch’s direction and impact. Trustees act as ambassadors for our mission, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to guide our work. 

The Board meets four times a year, usually for full-day meetings on a Friday, held either in person or online via Microsoft Teams. Meetings usually take place in London or Oxford. Two standing committees — Finance (meets quarterly) and Nominations (meets twice a year) — provide additional oversight. We also form ad-hoc working groups as needed, typically involving staff and trustees, to support strategic priorities or to manage the organisation through a challenging process.

Earthwatch Europe has a board of 12 trustees. Trustees come from a wide variety of backgrounds and have a wide range of skills and experience, including governance, science, communications and finance. The Chair of the board is supported by two Vice Chairs and an Honorary Treasurer.

Role Purpose

To lead trustee-level oversight of Earthwatch Europe’s financial governance, ensuring robust controls, clear reporting, sound risk management and strong financial decision making that supports long-term sustainability and impact. 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of budgets, management accounts, cashflow, reserves and forecasting.

• Ensure strong controls, compliance and risk management (including audit where applicable).

• Chair or help shape the Finance Committee.

• Support the Board to understand financial trade-offs and sustainability choices.

• Help shape the financial foundations for income growth (e.g., investment cases, risk/return thinking, sustainability modelling).

Please find attached the full job description and person specification.

Role Summary

If you have a senior financial background and a passion for global justice and disability inclusion, we’d love to hear from you. The role will serve on both our Board and our Finance and Audit Committee. Experience working with UK charities, either in finance, governance or audit, is desirable, but not essential. The role would suit an experienced Trustee, or someone considering their first Trustee role. This role will oversee the charity’s financial performance and position, financial governance, and investment management. 

Please note that we will review applications as they are received, so early applications
are encouraged.

About Us

For over 115 years, CBM has been transforming lives around the world. We work with local partners, making sure people with disabilities in some of the world’s poorest communities have access to healthcare, education and a future where they can thrive. As an organisation based on Christian values, we welcome staff of all faiths and none in our work to build an inclusive world in which all people with disabilities enjoy their human rights and achieve their full potential.

Please download the Recruitment Pack for full details and how to apply.

Vision Action is a unique organisation that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5.

The role of the board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its constitution. The board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

Terms of service

For Vision Action the trustees are members who have been elected to serve on the board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years.  Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the trustees are its legal directors. The trustee role is voluntary, although relevant expenses incurred in the course of fulfilling trustee responsibilities are reimbursable in line with organisational policy.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action board of trustees annually at the board meeting following the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The time commitment involved in being a trustee includes attendance at four board meetings per year, one of which is an all-day strategy session. Board meetings are typically held for half a day on a weekday afternoon, with at least half the meetings taking place online.  Board papers are circulated in advance for review and preparation.

In addition, trustees are expected to attend the AGM, which is usually held on a weekend, as well as occasional members’ forums or other Vision Action events, which are often arranged alongside board meetings in the evening. Trustees may also be asked to participate in ad hoc meetings or online discussions relating to specific topics. Sub-committee meetings are also held in advance of board meetings, and trustees are also expected to participate in one or more of these groups depending on their expertise and responsibilities. Trustees will also be expected to commit time to undertake a full induction process.

Main tasks

Charity trustees have ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each trustee will be expected to join one of the two sub-committees (Programmes and Research; Fundraising and Finance).  The committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings. 

General responsibilities

• Ensure th[JT1] at Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its constitution[JT2]  and byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on harassment and misconduct, safeguarding, recruitment of ex-offenders, and anti- bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support key leadership and monitor their performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each trustee should attend board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board reach sound decisions.  This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

Treasurer specific responsibilities

Hold specific responsibilities relevant to the role:

• Chair the fundraising and finance sub-committee, overseeing and advising on the financial risks, challenges, health and resilience of the charity, reporting back to the full board.
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including the financial risks. This should include regular monitoring of cost recovery.
• Advise the board on the financial implications of its plans and policies.
• Monitor the preparation of budgets, accounts and financial statements and their presentation to the board.

Ensure policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• Oversee the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost‐recovery and investment policies.
• Annually review the financial control framework to identify any changes, gaps and potential areas of exposure.
• Oversee the development and review of other policies and procedures as delegated to the fundraising and finance sub-committee by the board.

Ensure best practice:

• Support the Co-CEO (finance & operations) in preparing and presenting the budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements to the board, ensuring it receives a fully informed picture of the charity’s financial performance, position and effectiveness.
• Liaise with the Co-Chief Executive Officers and, as appropriate, with the investment advisors and auditors on matters relating to the organisation’s financial activities.
• Provide board‐level liaison with the external auditors on specific issues such as the auditors’ management letter, auditor remuneration and related board representations.
• Lead on recommending the appointment of new auditors to members of the organisation.
• Work with the Finance and Operations Manager to ensure that proper accounts and records are maintained, and that financial resources are spent and invested in line with good governance and legal and regulatory requirements.
• With the Finance & Operations Manager and the Joint Chief Executive Officers, closely monitor the reserves and investment plan, providing assurance to the board on the organisation’s future financial stability.
• Review all management accounts before they are placed before the board.

Personal specification

All our trustees are expected to have:

• A commitment to Vision Action’s vision and mission.
• A commitment to our values: being evidence-based, being inclusive, having integrity, sustainable programmes and being collaborative.
• Willingness to devote the time and effort needed to fulfil the role.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Vision Action.

The treasurer will have:

• Experience as a director of finance (or equivalent) and/or in a treasurer role, with extensive experience of overseeing financial and management accounting, financial reporting, monitoring and controls, and external audit.
• An understanding of charity accounting and reporting standards (Charities SORP 2026), or a willingness to develop this through personal learning and development.
• A recognised accountancy qualification (CAAB) and
• Experience in international development would be an advantage.

The position is supported by the CEO who is an accountant and a part time bookkeeper.

The Next Step

We welcome questions and a discussion on our current financial circumstances with our treasurer and chair. Our treasurer retires in 2026, and we would like to involve any new appointment in our committees and board meeting in the last part of this year.