Finance Committee Member - Society of the Sacred Heart CIO

Who They Are

The Society of the Sacred Heart is an international order of women religious within the Catholic Church. In England and Wales, it is a registered charity working in the fields of education, spirituality, justice, and peace. Alongside caring for its members, the Society also uses its resources to support other charities, educational institutions, and faith-based organisations. Further information about the Society’s history and work can be found on its website.

The Role

The Society is seeking experienced Board or Committee members with senior-level expertise in finance, property, risk, or audit.

As members of the Finance Committee, appointees will contribute to ensuring that effective financial governance arrangements are in place and will assist in monitoring the Society’s financial performance. They will be expected to provide rigorous scrutiny, constructive challenge, and sound financial advice to the trustees and leadership team.

Applicants should be respectful of the Catholic beliefs and ethos of the Society.

Commitment

Following an induction day, the Finance Committee is expected to meet three times a year for two-hour sessions. Meetings will be held both online and in person at the Society’s offices in Hammersmith, London.

This is a voluntary role. All reasonable expenses, including travel and refreshments, will be covered.

Term Length

An initial commitment of three years is sought.

Skills and Expertise

The Society is looking to recruit individuals with a broad range of skills and experience, ideally including:

• Professional financial or property management qualifications (e.g. accountancy)

• Experience of serving on a Finance Committee or Board of Trustees

• Knowledge of charity law and accounting practice

• Senior-level experience of financial management, scrutiny, and planning

• Understanding of investments and portfolio management

• Awareness of organisational risk and risk management

• Familiarity with audit practice within charities

• Ability to interpret budgets and review audited accounts

• A collaborative and supportive approach

Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community.