55 Financial accounts officer volunteer roles

West Midlands Heritage Trust, along with its three partner project trusts, is seeking to appoint a new Trustee Treasurer to its board. This is an exciting opportunity to help guide our work in rescuing, restoring, and finding sustainable new uses for historic buildings in our region.

Who are we?

We are four building preservation trusts all based in the West Midlands, working together to share our knowledge and experience to save Historic Buildings at Risk.

West Midlands Heritage is made up of: West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust, Worcestershire Building Preservation Trust, and Wolverhampton Heritage Trust.

We aim to safeguard buildings of historical and/or architectural importance, within the West Midlands, Worcestershire and Warwickshire which are in danger of being lost. Our previous projects range in age and type from a 16th Century farmhouse to a Georgian townhouse and a Victorian Cemetery Chapel. 

As well as projects to protect and rescue historic buildings, the Trusts organise a range of activities and events to encourage and involve our members and local communities, as well as contribute to professional development within the sector.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a volunteer Trustee Treasurer with an interest in saving historic buildings at risk and contributing to their local community.

The Treasurer plays a key role in supporting the financial governance of the Trusts and helping to ensure their long-term sustainability. Working with fellow Trustees and staff, including a Finance Officer, the Treasurer will oversee financial reporting, budgeting and financial controls, and provide advice on financial matters affecting the organisation.

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in:

• Finance, accountancy or bookkeeping
• Financial management of charities, businesses, or within the public sector
• Strategic financial planning
• Risk management or governance

A recognised accounting qualification would be advantageous but is not essential.

It is not necessary to have previous trustee experience, as support and guidance will be given.

What the role entails

• Attendance at up to SIX evening meetings of The Council of Management per year, plus the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Attendance at finance sub-committee meetings.
• Optional attendance at other meetings and site visits within the West Midlands, Worcestershire and Warwickshire.
• Preparation of financial reports for the Council of Management and the AGM
• Responsible for overseeing Finance Officer role and activities
• Oversight of Trust bank accounts and authorisation of payments, monthly, with Finance Officer
• Oversight of Restricted Fund Management, with Finance Officer
• Liaison with the Trust’s appointed accountants (book-keeping) and auditors, with Finance Officer

Trustees are elected for a 3-year term of office, and may offer themselves for re-election thereafter. Out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

We are keen to make the role of Trustee Treasurer accessible to all and will endeavour to make necessary arrangements for individuals unable to attend in person, including the use of online meeting platforms.

The opportunity

The Finance and Audit Committee (FAC) provides BIICL’s Board of Trustees with oversight and assurance on our finances, controls, investments, and audit. We're looking for a chartered accountant or senior finance leader to chair the Committee and join our Board of Trustees at a pivotal moment: a new Director and CEO, a new Director of Operations in post, and a new strategy launching in 2027. You'll bring real technical credibility and the judgement to translate financial detail into confidence for a Board whose backgrounds are mostly legal and academic. In return, you'll help shape the next chapter of one of the world's most respected independent legal institutes.

The current Chair’s term ends in December 2026. We are seeking a successor to join in October, allowing time for handover and induction ahead of the November FAC meeting and the December Board meeting.

Purpose of the role

The Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee provides strategic, non-executive financial oversight rather than day-to-day accounting.

As a trustee, you hold joint legal and fiduciary responsibility for the charity’s overall governance, strategic direction and financial health.

As Committee Chair, you will act as a trusted advisor and critical friend to the Director and Chief Executive and the Director of Operations, ensuring that BIICL’s income is robustly governed, financial risks are mitigated, and resources are deployed optimally to deliver maximum social impact. BIICL outsources financial management to a specialist non-profit accountancy firm, overseen internally by the Director of Operations; you’ll evaluate how well that arrangement is working and recommend change if needed. 

Key responsibilities

Strategic financial oversight

· Budgetary scrutiny: oversee the annual £2.5m operational budget and financial forecasts provided by the executive team.

· Performance monitoring: review quarterly management accounts, analysing variances, cash flow health, and performance against key performance indicators (KPIs).

· Reserves management: champion the regular review of a robust Reserves Policy to safeguard the charity against sudden funding fluctuations.

· Investment assets: oversee the performance of the charity’s cash reserves and any investment portfolios, ensuring alignment with ethical investment strategies.

Audit, risk and internal controls

· Statutory reporting: lead the FAC in reviewing the Annual Report and Accounts, ensuring compliance with Charity SORP FRS102 and statutory filing deadlines.

· External audit: manage the relationship with the External Auditor, leading on the tender process and reviewing the post-audit management letter.

· Risk mitigation: oversee the financial section of the organisation’s risk register, ensuring internal controls are sufficient to prevent fraud and compliance failures across complex funding streams, and ensure FAC oversight of the wider Risk Register.

· Fiscal compliance: monitor compliance with complex tax regimes relevant to this scale, including VAT, Gift Aid, and trading subsidiary operations (as applicable).

Committee leadership and Board reporting

· Meeting governance: set the agenda and chair quarterly FAC meetings, fostering an environment of collaboration, constructive, and high-quality challenge.

· Board communication: report clearly to the full Board of Trustees, translating complex financial positions into strategic insights for non-financial board members.

Statutory trustee duties

· Legal compliance: ensure the charity complies with charity law, company law, and all other relevant legislation or regulation.

· Strategic direction: contribute actively to the Board of Trustees in setting the charity’s overarching vision, mission, values, and strategic goals.

· Asset protection: act as a responsible custodian of the charity’s assets, ensuring funds are spent solely in furtherance of its charitable objectives.

· Effective governance: attend and actively participate in full quarterly Board meetings, the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and strategic away days.

· Collective decision-making: maintain the principle of collective board responsibility, upholding and supporting decisions made by the wider board.

Legal and regulatory frameworks

The postholder is required to understand, uphold, and apply the following core regulatory frameworks:

· The 6 Essential Trustee Duties (Charity Commission Guidance CC3): You share collective legal liability to ensure the charity carries out its purpose for the public benefit, complies with its governing document, acts in the charity's best interests, manages resources responsibly, acts with reasonable care and skill, and remains fully accountable.

· Financial Reporting Standards 102 and the Charities SORP: Because our annual income exceeds £250,000, the accounts must be compiled under the Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP), transparently separating restricted, unrestricted, and designated funds.

· The Charity Governance Code: Our Board intends to benchmark itself against this code. You will directly champion Principle 5 (Board Effectiveness) and Principle 6 (Risk and Control) to ensure internal controls are regularly evaluated.

Person specification

Experience and qualifications

· Financial qualification: chartered status (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) is essential.

· Senior leadership: proven experience operating as a CFO, Finance Director, or partner in a professional services practice in an organisation of similar or larger scale.

· Sector expertise: strong working knowledge of Charity SORP, restricted and unrestricted funding, and UK charity law is highly desirable.

· Governance background: previous experience as a trustee, non-executive director, or committee member is advantageous.  

Core skills and attributes

· Strategic clarity: ability to look past the numbers to see systematic risks and strategic opportunities.  

· Collaborative challenge: ability to robustly hold senior staff and third-party advisors to account while maintaining a supportive, professional working relationship.

· Communication: ability to explain intricate financial matters plainly to non-financial audiences.

· Commitment to the cause: a demonstrable passion for the charity’s core mission and alignment with its values. 

Terms of appointment

Term:

Trustee appointments are for a three-year term, renewable for a maximum of two consecutive terms.

Time commitment:

Trustees are required to commit approximately 8-10 days per year. There are four board meetings, four FAC meetings per year, a strategy day, plus approx. 2-3 hours per month for executive consultation. 

Location:

London/Hybrid – FAC meetings usually take place online; Board meetings and strategic away days are in-person, usually at our London office.

Remuneration:

This is a voluntary role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration; however, all reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

Reporting to:

Board of Trustees / Chair of the Board

How to apply

To apply formally, please submit a CV and supporting statement, each no more than two sides of A4, clearly outlining your suitability for the role against the criteria in the person specification and your motivation for applying.

Please include your home address, contact email, and mobile number.

We aim to acknowledge receipt within 2-3 days.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We expect to interview candidates from mid-September with a view to appointing by the end of October.

For further information about the role or to arrange an informal discussion, please contact Tom Asher, Director of Operations

Your expert understanding of charity and/or company accounts and financial management will ensure that trustees exercise their financial responsibilities. You will act as lead trustee on overseeing the annual audit, and advise on financial procedures, regular financial reporting and forecasting.

This will involve chairing the Trust’s Audit Committee, which meets once a year to receive draft charity accounts and audit reports for The Abbotsford Trust and its subsidiary Abbotsford Trading Company. The Committee is responsible for recommending accounts for approval to the Board of Directors, and for making recommendations on the appointment of auditors.

You will exercise oversight of the Trust’s financial management throughout the year through membership of the Executive Committee, which meets up to 10 times a year to receive financial reports from management. Trading Company management accounts are the responsibility of a separate Trading Company Board.

This role will suit someone with professional accountancy qualifications and experience of audited accounts. Ideally, but not necessarily, you will have experience of charity accounts.

The BDFA is seeking a new Volunteer Treasurer/Trustee to join our passionate and dedicated Board.

As a trustee, you will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the BDFA, ensuring strong governance, and helping to improve the lives of children, young people, and families affected by Batten disease across the UK.

The overall role of Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the organisation’s affairs, ensure its financial viability and ensure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

As our Treasurer, you will:

• Oversee, approve and present budgets, accounts and financial statements
• Assure that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
• Prepare and present financial reports to the Board
• Ensure that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
• Have oversight of and give guidance to BDFA Accounting & Financial Administration Officer
• Attend board meetings
• Present financial overview at the AGM

Ideal Background:

Fully qualified chartered accountant/financial qualifications and experience. Some experience of charity finance and fundraising.

We welcome suitably qualified applicants who share our commitment to inclusion, integrity, and advocacy, and who are willing to contribute their time, skills, and experience to drive meaningful change.

Trustees meet regularly (virtually and occasionally in person) and contribute to board discussions, sub-committees, and strategic projects, including attending our in person meeting once a year.

This is a voluntary role, but the personal and social impact is immeasurable.

About us

Batten disease is a very rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system. Symptoms sometimes begin in infancy and sometimes later in childhood, after apparently normal early development. Occasionally it may start in adulthood. In individuals suffering from Batten disease, nervous system function steadily declines, causing a wide variety of neurologic problems, including loss of vision and seizures. The life expectancy of a child born with Batten disease can vary, depending on the form of the disease and the age of onset. Some children die in early childhood, while others may be able to live into their teens or twenties.

The BDFA was registered as a charity in 2001 and our mission is “to enable children and adults who are affected by Batten disease to live life to the full and to provide families with the care and support they need so that they do not walk this path alone.” The BDFA offers informed guidance and support to families and the professionals who work with them, as well as actively raising awareness, and promoting research into the management of Batten disease to improve patient care pathways and ultimately find a cure.

Work Location: Remote

***Please note: this is not an internship***

Role Purpose:

Trustees provide strategic leadership, ensuring that St. George's Crypt fulfils its charitable objectives, makes a postive impact in the Leeds community, and remains financially sustainable. Trustees act collectively to safeguard the charity's values, reputation, and long-term effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Strategic Leadership

• set and review the charity's strategic direction in alignment with its mission to support homeless and vulnerable individuals in Leeds
• ensure that all activiites deliver public benefit and comply with charity law, the governing document, and regulatory expectations
• monitor risks and ensure that robust governance structures are in place
• support and review the work of the Head of Finance and finance team
• oversee the external audit process, from appointment of auditors to implementation of any recommendations

Financial Oversight:

• oversee financial performance, ensuring funds are used responsibly and transparently in line with donor expectations and regulatory requirements
• review budgets, annual accounts, and financial policies, ensuring sustainability of services such as emergency shelter, addiction recovery programmes and meal supervision
• ensure effective oversight of the Crypt's financial affairs and its financial viability

Support for Senior Leadership

• provide guidance and constructive challenge to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team
• ensure leadership decisions reflect the charity's values and strategic propositions

Advocacy & Representation

• act as an ambassador for St. George's Crypt within Leeds and beyond, promoting awareness of its services and impact
• represent the charity's values of compassion, dignity and hope 

Compliance & Accountability

• ensure the charity meets all legal and regulatory obligations, including those set by the Charity Commission
• uphold confidentiality, ethics, and good governance practice at all times
• ensure the Crypt fulfils its mission and values, taking advantage of new opportunities and navigating challenges and managing risks appropriately
• ensure the Crypt has sound financial policies, controls and governance in place, and complies with these

Monitoring Impact

• evaluate the effectiveness of programmes such as residential support, training opportunities, and health and wellbeing initiatives
• ensure all services remain responsive to the needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Leeds
• give clear strategic direction, setting overall policy and goals, and monitoring progress and impact
• understand the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) and provide guidance on accounting and financial reporting for the charity

How to apply

To make an application, please:

• download our Finance Trustee application pack 
• complete application form
• send CV 
• contact Martin Barry 

Recruitment timeline

Closing date: Monday 28 September2026

Shortlisting & Interviews: October 2026

Why join us

Rebuild with Hope was established in 2021 and began supporting people facing multiple barriers to employment. From our humble beginnings we have seen continued and exciting growth which has allowed us to further develop and expand our support programmes alongside the opening of several retail outlets, high street stores and a community hub and café.

Our additional retail stores are in Runcorn (two stores), Earlstown, Kirkham, Thorn Cross and Wrexham. Our mission is to support those facing multiple barriers to employment by providing mentorship, employment opportunities and holistic support. Rebuild With Hope provides opportunities and delivers comprehensive support making transitioning back to work as smooth as possible.

We offer training, volunteering, work experience and progression to real work opportunities, coupled with wrap around support to foster independence, promote self-esteem and provide hope for people when they need it most. Employment and volunteering opportunities continue to help us support communities with the ongoing and ever challenging cost of living crisis.

Overview

The Rebuild with Hope Foundation is a fast growing and impactful charity supporting those facing barriers to work. Due to our continued growth we are looking to increase and diversify our Board membership. We are looking to appoint Trustees, no former experience is required as training will be provided. We are also looking to appoint a Treasurer a long with an experienced Chair of the Board. There are separate recruitment packs for each of the three roles, with each outlining the different knowledge and experiences required .

As Treasureyou will help steer the charity towards achieving its mission. This vital role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful community initiatives, support sustainable growth, and foster positive relationships with stakeholders. As a Trustee, you will play a key part in shaping the charity’s future, ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective governance. This paid position invites passionate individuals eager to make a lasting difference through dedicated service and innovative thinking.

Role Description

Board Members are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, probity of its activities, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives, and goals in accordance with the Constitution, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Board Members should be aware of and understand their individual and collective responsibilities and should not be overly reliant on one or more Members in any aspect of the governance of the charity.

Treasurer Specific Duties

• Liaising, where applicable with the CEO (or other appropriate member of staff)
• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial position of the charity
• Creating in conjunction with relevant financial senior instruments for the control of charity assets
• Ensuring that staff create sound financial instruments for the control of charity assets
• Advising on the financial implications the Charity's Strategic Plan
• Ensuring that the annual accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP
• Ensuring close working relationships with the internal audit team and any Committees of the Board
• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained and ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects
• Acting as a counter signatory on charity cheques and any applications and receipts of funding (if mandated)

Trustee Duties

• Ensuring the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements and acts within the confines of the Constitution and its charitable objects.
• Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries, and future beneficiaries.
• Promoting and developing the charity to help it grow and maintain its public benefit.
• Maintaining sound financial management and control of the charity’s resources.
• Ensuring a fully effective and appropriate system recruitment, for appointment the and monitoring of the work and activities for the CEO and Senior Management team.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources, striving for best practice in good governance.
• Maintaining absolute confidentiality about all aspects of Trustees’ business

This role offers an inspiring opportunity to contribute your skills and experiences toward creating positive change while working alongside passionate professionals dedicated to making a difference in our communities.

How to apply

Please download the relevant recruitment pack for either Trustee, Treasurer and Chair. The application process is outlined within the pack.

We request no contact from external agencies

Could you help shape the future of Katherine Low Settlement?

We're looking for a new Treasurer Trustee to join our Board.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with financial experience to use their skills to support one of Battersea's longest-established charities.

About Katherine Low Settlement

Katherine Low Settlement is a busy, local charity that has been serving Battersea and the wider Wandsworth community since 1924. We are dedicated to building stronger communities and enable people to challenge and find ways out of poverty and isolation. We run a range of our own community services to support local older people and children, young people, and their families from refugee communities. We campaign for social change. We incubate and support other charities and social businesses to thrive. Each week we work with 30+ charities and community groups supporting more than 1,000 people every year.

About the Role

KLS is looking for a Treasurer Trustee to bring financial insight, sound judgement and strategic challenge to our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to help a community-focused charity stay financially strong, well governed and able to make a lasting difference for people in Battersea and Wandsworth.

What You’ll Do

• Guide Board-level understanding of KLS’s finances, risks and long-term sustainability.

• Chair the Finance Committee and help turn financial information into clear, confident decisions.

• Provide Board level scrutiny of budgets, management accounts, reserves, cash flow, controls and annual accounts, including reviewing income and expenditure, monitoring restricted and unrestricted funds, and supporting year-end reporting.

• Provide constructive challenge on funding, strategy, financial planning and major commitments, including grant budgets, funder reporting, reserves planning and financial sustainability.

• Champion transparent, ethical financial stewardship that supports safe, effective services.

• Contribute to wider discussions on strategy, governance, safeguarding and organisational sustainability, in a more general trustee capacity.

Who We’re Looking For

• Financial confidence, curiosity and clarity, with the ability to read the numbers and ask thoughtful questions.

• Ability to help others engage with finance in a practical, accessible way.

• Experience in finance, accountancy, audit, risk, grant management, charity finance, trusteeship or the voluntary and community sector.

• Understanding of charity finance, including monitoring restricted funds, reviewing management accounts, supporting reserves policy, preparing for audit or independent examination, and helping trustees understand financial risks.

• A professional accountancy qualification is welcome but not essential if you have broader financial leadership or governance experience. 

• Previous trustee experience is desirable but not essential.

Equality, Diversity and Accessibility

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience, community connections or insight into the communities KLS serves. We are committed to an accessible recruitment process and will make reasonable adjustments where needed.

Appointment Requirements

Appointment is subject to eligibility to act as a charity trustee and, where applicable, as a company director, a satisfactory DBS check and any relevant identity verification requirements.

How to Apply

If you are interested in using your financial skills to support local impact, we would love to hear from you. Please send a CV and short supporting statement outlining your interest in KLS, your relevant financial or governance experience, and what you would bring to the Board to Sarah Gibb, KLS CEO.

Closing date: Wednesday 30th September 2026

Volunteer Opportunity – Treasurer Trustee
Independent Arts Isle of Wight

Do you have financial skills and experience that could help strengthen creativity, wellbeing, and
community connections across the Isle of Wight?

Independent Arts is seeking a Treasurer Trustee to join our Board and help support the charity’s
continued growth and sustainability.

Independent Arts works with people of all ages and backgrounds, using creativity and
participation in the arts to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, build confidence, and
strengthen communities. We believe that creativity can have a positive impact on people’s lives,
and we are looking for someone who shares our values and wants to make a meaningful
contribution.

As Treasurer Trustee, you will play an important role in helping the Board oversee the charity’s financial affairs, ensuring strong financial governance and supporting informed decision-making. You will work alongside fellow trustees and staff to help ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and able to continue delivering its valuable work across the Isle of Wight.

We are looking for someone who can offer:
• Experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, business planning, or financial
management
• The ability to understand and explain financial information clearly
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to Board discussions
• Commitment to good governance and the aims of Independent Arts
Previous charity trustee experience or a professional accounting qualification would be
welcome but is not essential. We encourage applications from people with relevant skills and
practical experience from a range of professional and personal backgrounds.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the local community
• Experience of charity leadership and governance
• The chance to use your professional skills for social good
• The opportunity to work alongside a passionate and committed Board and team
• A chance to support creativity, wellbeing, and inclusive community development across
the Isle of Wight

Time commitment
This is a voluntary role. The Treasurer Trustee will be expected to attend quarterly Board and
finance committee meetings and review papers in advance, with additional time required to
support the CEO in financial planning, Board and annual reporting activities.
Independent Arts is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications
from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities.
 

🌎 VOLUNTEER FINANCE MANAGER / TRUSTEE TREASURER

UK-based | Remote | Flexible

Could your financial expertise help make a real difference?

We are looking for an experienced Finance Manager / Accountant to join our international charity on a voluntary basis and help strengthen our financial management as we grow.

Working closely with senior management, you will provide financial oversight, guidance and reporting, helping us make informed decisions and ensure our resources are managed responsibly.

What you'll do:

• Oversee accounting and financial reconciliations
• Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning
• Prepare clear financial reports for senior management and trustees
• Monitor income, expenditure and financial controls
• Provide financial advice and support strategic decision-making
• Help develop strong financial systems and processes

What we're looking for:

• Strong professional experience in finance, accounting or a similar role
• Excellent analytical and organisational skills
• Confident using Excel and Microsoft Office
• Able to communicate financial information clearly
• Reliable, proactive and comfortable working remotely
• Charity/NGO experience is desirable but not essential

Professional qualifications such as ACA, ACCA or CIMA are welcome, but relevant experience is more important.

Why volunteer with us?

This is an opportunity to use your professional skills to support an international charity and directly contribute to work that makes a difference to communities in need.

⏰ Flexible commitment
📍 UK-based / Remote
❤️ Voluntary / Unpaid 

If you're an experienced finance professional who would like to give something back and become part of our team, we'd love to hear from you.

Initially we are looking for a Finance Manager, however, if the board feels after a 3 month trial, the candidate is the right fit, this position could lead to a Trustee/Treasurer role.

Please send a short introduction and your CV.

The Opportunity

After seven successful years, our current Treasurer is retiring, and we're looking for someone to guide the charity through its next chapter. You'll support our Head of Finance and build strong working relationships with the CEO and wider Board.

What You'll Do

• Chair the monthly Finance call
• Chair the Audit & Remuneration Sub-Committee (two meetings a year)
• Attend four Board meetings a year
• Hold regular one-to-one meetings with the Head of Finance
• Oversee audit and the auditor relationship
• Oversee banking and cash management, including authorising payments
• Be available for prompt responses to emails and calls, and attend our premises from time to time

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• The highest standards of personal integrity and professionalism
• A genuine interest in youth homelessness and supporting vulnerable young people
• Senior-level financial and accounting experience, including a recognised accountancy qualification
• Experience across management accounts, budgets, forecasts, cash-flow projections, statutory accounts and audit findings, plus financial governance, internal controls, risk management, reserves, investment oversight and organisational sustainability
• Sound judgement, independence of mind and the confidence to challenge constructively
• A collaborative approach, able to work well with the Chair, CEO, Head of Finance and fellow trustees
• Enough time and flexibility for the role, including approving payments and attending meetings in person

Desirable:

• Previous experience as a charity trustee, Treasurer or non-executive director
• Knowledge of charity accounting, including the Charities SORP, restricted and unrestricted funds, and reserves policies
• Understanding of trustees' and directors' legal and regulatory duties
• Experience with organisations funded through public-sector contracts, grants and mixed income
• Familiarity with safeguarding-led organisations

Opportunity: Chair of the Finance and Risk Sub-committee, Board of Trustees

Open School East is at a pivotal moment in its development and is seeking a Chair of the Finance and Risk Sub-committee to help shape its next chapter.

Deadline for applications: Wednesday 30th September 2026

We are interested in hearing from candidates with expertise in:

• Finance: A person with experience in finance management or accounting, with the capacity to provide a strategic overview of finances, ensuring viability, compliance with relevant legislative frameworks, effective use of resources and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

We are especially keen to hear from people with knowledge of, or an interest in, education and the arts. By committing your time and expertise to our two meetings a quarter (full Trustee meeting and Chairing the Finance and Risk Sub-committee meetings), you can become part of a leading arts education charity, making a real difference to emerging creatives of all ages and from all backgrounds.

We also warmly welcome people who bring lived experience of the barriers OSE seeks to dismantle including people of colour, disabled people, those from working class backgrounds, or people with experience of marginalisation in the arts or education sectors.

Role Description

Treasurer/Finance Lead Trustee

Remuneration: The role of Treasurer is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although expenses for travel may be claimed

Reports to: Board of Trustees

Key relationships: Chair, Trustees, Head of Finance & Central Services, CEO

Location: Southampton

Time commitment: Board and Committee meetings

Objective

The Treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements. The Treasurer will ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, and are appropriate for the charity.

Principal responsibilities

1.1. Oversee and approve budgets, accounts, financial statements and financial reports to the Board of Trustees after discussion with the Head of Finance & Central Services.

1.2. Seek assurance that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs and are within the charity’s objects

1.3. Instrumental in the development and implementation of appropriate financial, reserves and investment policies

Main duties:

1.4. Liaise with the Head of Finance & Central Services to ensure that the charity’s annual accounts are compliant with the current Charities SORP.

1.5. Ensure that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place

1.6. Overview insurance to confirm that the organisation is fully covered, ensuring that equipment and assets are adequately maintained and insured

1.7. Advise on the financial implications of the organisation's strategic plans

1.8. Chair the Finance & Fundraising Committee

1.9. Liaise with the charity’s auditors where appropriate

1.10. Keep the Board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities

1.11. Contribute to the fundraising strategy of the organisation

1.12. Make a formal presentation of the Accounts at the Annual General Meeting, drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way

1.13. Sit in on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required

Person Specification

Role Title: Treasurer

The Board of Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

All trustees should also be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual trustee in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

Experience:

Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with Rose Road’s Visions and Values and an understanding of its work.

· Experience of working in finance (preferably with a financial qualification)

· Successful experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation

· Demonstrable experience of building and sustaining relationships with key stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives

· Proven track record of sound judgement and effective decision making

· History of impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences

· Track record of commitment to promoting equality and diversity

Knowledge, skills and understanding:

· Commitment to the organisation and a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort – typically 8 meetings per year as well as ad hoc meetings and events. 

· Prepared to challenge decisions, with a willingness to speak their mind when necessary

· Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

· Good, independent judgement and strategic vision

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

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· Understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Trustees and Chief Executive

About The Pinnacle Centre

The Pinnacle Centre is a third space in Birmingham helping young adults grow holistically. We work across three domains: personal development, sports and wellbeing, and community and belonging.

Vision 2030 is where that work is heading. We're building a multi-purpose centre in Birmingham — sports facilities, co-working space, an auditorium and a café — designed as a home for young adults to train, work, learn and gather.

Role Summary

You run Pinnacle's finance function day to day: accurate books, timely reporting, tight controls and no surprises. The CFO sets financial strategy; you own the numbers underneath it.

Key tasks

1.  Bookkeeping & transactions

○ Record income and expenditure accurately and promptly.

○ Reconcile bank accounts, card transactions and payment platforms.

○ Process supplier invoices and volunteer expense claims in line with policy.

2.  Reporting

○ Produce monthly management accounts with commentary, not just figures.

○ Report budget against actual by department and flag variances early.

○ Track restricted fund spend against funder conditions.

3.  Controls & compliance

○ Enforce authorisation limits, expenses policy and segregation of duties.

○ Prepare for year end and support Companies House filings and the CIC annual report.

○ Keep records in a state that would survive scrutiny.

4.  Budgeting support

○ Help each lead build a budget they can realistically hold.

○ Provide event and programme costings, including cost per participant.

○ Challenge spending that is unbudgeted or unjustified.

What we're looking for

● Qualified, part-qualified or experienced in bookkeeping and management accounts.

● Accurate and methodical — small errors bother you.

● Confident with accounting software such as Xero or QuickBooks.

● Familiar with restricted fund accounting in a charity or CIC context (desirable).

● Discreet and trustworthy with confidential information.

What we have to offer

● Real ownership of a function, not a task list — you will shape how it works, not just execute someone else's plan.

● A seat in a team building towards a 2030 horizon, with a clear line of sight to the leadership team.

● Access to our network of founders, professionals, entrepreneurs and investors through Pinnacle's events programme.

● Training, mentoring and the opportunity to build and lead a team of your own as the organisation grows.

● The reward of building something in your city that will outlast all of us.

Please note: this is currently a volunteer position. Reasonable expenses for travel, equipment and refreshments are reimbursed in line with our Expenses Policy. As Pinnacle grows and funding allows, we expect several senior roles to move to paid positions, and volunteers already in post will be considered first.

What we do

Respair Therapy C.I.C. began in 2023 with a simple belief: dance belongs to everybody, and every body. Like many of the people we work with, Respair does not fit neatly into one box. Our work exists on a spectrum, from the gloriously frivolous to the deeply serious.

At one end, we hire out silent disco equipment so that people can turn their living room, kitchen or garden into a dancefloor. We create joyful events where people can put on a pair of headphones, choose their music and dance together without worrying about what they look like. Income from silent disco hire goes back into Respair, so a party in someone’s garden can help another person access psychological support.

At the other end is Dance Movement Psychotherapy, or DMP. This is not a dance class or an informal wellbeing activity. It is a recognised form of psychotherapy in which movement, the body and the relationship between client and therapist are central to the clinical work.

In the UK, Dance Movement Psychotherapists complete postgraduate training at Master’s degree level, including clinical placements, personal therapy, supervised practice and academic research. Qualified practitioners register with the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK and work to professional and ethical standards. DMP is used within NHS services, as well as in schools, mental health services, social care, charities and private practice. It is serious clinical work that can support people experiencing trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss, relationship difficulties and other forms of psychological distress.

Between these two ends are projects such as Babe Club, our silent disco for parents, carers and babies; therapeutic movement in schools; and work with neurodivergent people, adults with learning disabilities and people living with dementia.

Our work is inclusive, trauma informed and anti oppressive. Whether we are helping somebody throw a brilliant party or supporting a person through specialist psychotherapy, we are creating more opportunities for people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities to experience movement, connection and psychological support.

How do we what we do

Respair is run by a Founding Director and team of Supporting Directors who volunteer their time. The Founding Director is also the Lead Psychotherapist and Facilitator. We meet quarterly to discuss the finance, legal and compliance aspects of the work. We have an accountant and a book keeper and we use Quickbooks to keep everything in one place. We apply for funding from local and national funding bodies. We have been successful in securing over £24,000 in restricted funds, and we have plans to apply for more. 

What we need

Respair is a creative and responsive organisation, so new ideas and opportunities can appear quickly. We need a Finance Director who can help us pause, understand the numbers and decide what is realistic.

The right person will be financially experienced, practical and approachable. They will look beyond whether the figures add up to help us understand what they mean, ask difficult questions and give clear advice.

Essential skills and qualities

The successful candidate will:

• Have substantial experience using QuickBooks.
• Have experience working with a charity, Community Interest Company, social enterprise or other small mission driven organisation.
• Understand restricted grants, funder budgets and financial reporting.
• Be able to prepare and interpret annual budgets, project budgets, cash flow forecasts and management accounts.
• Compare actual income and expenditure against agreed budgets, identify significant differences and recommend action.
• Assess the financial impact of new projects, contracts, staffing decisions and significant purchases.
• Develop proportionate financial policies and controls, including reserves policies and spending limits.
• Read annual accounts and ask sensible questions before they are approved.
• Explain financial information clearly to people without a finance background.
• Give honest, independent advice and offer thoughtful challenge, including when the Managing Director or Board may have hoped for a different answer.
• Be trustworthy, reliable and able to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Support Respair’s commitment to inclusion, fairness and accessible mental health support.

The Finance Director will work closely with Debbie, our Founding Director, so a warm, straightforward and respectful working relationship will be important.

Desirable skills and qualities

It would be helpful if the candidate also has:

• A recognised finance qualification, such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or AAT.
• Previous experience as a finance director, treasurer or board member.
• Knowledge of payroll, PAYE, pensions, Corporation Tax and Companies House reporting.
• Experience working constructively with bookkeepers and external accountants.
• An interest in mental health, therapy, community work or the creative arts.

We do not expect one person to know every answer. We do expect them to recognise the limits of their knowledge, ask questions and seek specialist advice when needed. A sense of humour and an understanding of the slightly unpredictable nature of a small, growing organisation would also be very welcome.