Chair of Finance Committee/Treasurer

We are seeking a Treasurer/Chair of Finance Committee for our growing charity. You will provide leadership and oversight to ensure that the Trust's financial management, planning and reporting are of the highest standard. You will act as a key advisor to the Board on financial strategy, governance and risk management, and ensure the charity's resources are used effectively to deliver our mission.

We are a small, friendly and supportive Board with a range of skills and expertise. West Horsley Place Trust is a thriving arts and heritage charity with enormous potential to grow. We are custodians of a 400 acre estate with a mission to improve people's wellbeing through culture, heritage and nature.

The Finance Committee plays a vital role in safeguarding our charity's financial health and ensuring our ambitious plans are underpinned by sound financial management and good governance. We are now seeking an experienced and collaborative individual to chair this committee and join our Board of Trustees.

If you have a strong financial background, strategic insight, and enthusiasm for our mission, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

As Treasurer/Chair of the Finance Committee, you will:

• Lead four Finance Committee meetings per year (some online/hybrid) and report to the Board on key financial matters.
• Provide oversight of the Trust's financial planning, management accounts, budgeting, and cashflow.
• Work closely with the Charity Director and Management Accountant to ensure robust financial systems and reporting.
• Advise the Board on financial strategy, risk and investment decisions.
• Support the development of the annual budget and five year financial plan.
• Monitor compliance with financial, charity and company regulations.
• Support income generation strategies, including fundraising, commercial activity and capital projects.
• Help ensure transparency, accountability and value for money across the Trust's activities.

As a Trustee, you will also:

• Contribute to the shape of the Trust's mission, values and long term strategy.
• Uphold the principles of good governance and public benefit.
• Support and challenge the executive team constructively and collegiately.
• Promote the work of the Trust and act as an ambassador for our mission.
• Attend Board meetings (four per year).

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION Essential

• Qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or senior financial experience.
• Experience in financial leadership within a complex organisation.
• Strong understanding of financial strategy, risk management and governance.
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and accessibly.
• Collaborative approach and willingness to work as part of a supportive team.
• Commitment to the aims and values of West Horsley Place Trust.

Desirable

• Experience in the charity, arts, heritage or cultural sectors.
• Understanding of charity finance, SORP and regulatory compliance.
• Previous board or committee experience.

Commitment

Trustees are appointed for a three year term, renewable up to a maximum of three terms.

Time commitment

Approximately 8-10 hours per month, including:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Four Finance Committee meetings per year
• Review of papers and ad hoc consultation with the Trust Director and Management Accountant
• Annual away day and occasional site visits or events

Expenses for travel in accordance with CC guidelines and HMRC tax free allowances will be reimbursed.

BECOMING A TRUSTEE

Being a Trustee is a rewarding volunteer role with significant responsibility. All new Trustees receive induction and training, and ongoing development is supported through our Board learning programme. We share best practice across the Board and work collaboratively with the operational team to help the charity flourish.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to equality of opportunity in all our activities, including our trustee recruitment. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences who can bring new perspectives to our work.

Accessibility Statement

We are committed to removing barriers wherever reasonably practicable and welcome candidates who may need adjustments to the recruitment or interview process. Please contact Rebecca Labram if you would like this pack in another format or to discuss any access needs.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and cover letter explaining your interest and suitability for the role to Rebecca Labram, HR Trustee, at , with the subject line: "WHPT - Treasurer Application".

Closing date: Friday 28 November, 12 noon

Interviews: early December