We are actively searching for a dedicated and skilled individual to join our Board as our new Finance Trustee. This opportunity comes at a pivotal moment in our development, and we are specifically seeking a Trustee with experience of Financial Management with a track record in charity finances.
Purpose: The Finance Trustee’s primary objective is to oversee the governance and effective management of the charity’s finances. The core responsibilities include maintaining a comprehensive understanding of the charity’s financial position, providing informed advice to other Board members and monitoring the overall financial governance with reference to best practice, the governing document, and legal requirements. Regular reporting on the charity’s financial health (with input from the Finance Manager) will empower the Board to make strategic decisions with confidence and insight. The Finance Trustee would also have a key role in the Finance and Risk sub-committee.
Time Commitment: Six Trustee meetings a year, plus some time outside of the meetings completing trustee duties and building relationship with the Finance Manager and CEO. Board meetings are usually held six times a year usually at 4pm onwards either in Southampton or remotely via Microsoft Teams.
Remuneration: A trustee position at Southampton Forward is a volunteer role. It is unpaid but reasonable expenses can be claimed where appropriate.
Benefits of being a Trustee: We are offering the opportunity to join a professional and welcoming Board of Trustees, where your time, knowledge and experience will be valued. The remit of the charity across culture, tourism, festival and events means that there is an opportunity to contribute to Southampton’s growth.
In addition to this you will be at the heart of Southampton Forward helping us develop, grow and achieve our full potential.
We are also pleased to offer invitations to all our events and access to governance training.
Principal responsibilities:
As a Finance Trustee, you will bring your financial and accounting knowledge and experience to help guide the financial decision-making of our charity, working closely with the other members of our Board of Trustees (Meet Southampton Forward’s Team & Trustees) to safeguard Southampton Forward’s finances.
| Financial Oversight | Using financial and accounting expertise to guide the charity’s financial decision-making. Collaborating with the Board to safeguard Southampton Forward’s finances and secure its future. |
| Compliance and Governance | Ensuring appropriate allocation of resources aligned with the charity’s objectives as per its governing document. Guaranteeing legal and regulatory compliance, consistently aiming for governance best practices in the organisation’s best interests. |
| Financial Management | Overseeing the financial stability of Southampton Forward, managing resources to align with budgets and established standards. Implementing effective risk management processes, accounting procedures, and internal controls, ensuring compliance with regulatory and legal requirements. |
| Financial Reporting | Verifying the accuracy of balance sheets, budgets, management accounts, cash flow, and annual accounts. |
| Strategic Analysis and Planning | Critically analysing strategic proposals against objectives, providing recommendations for optimal outcomes. Contributing to the organisation’s direction and development through active participation in strategic planning and fundraising efforts. |
| Legal Compliance and Advocacy | Ensuring compliance with charity law and other applicable regulations. Demonstrating a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the role. |
| Board Meetings and Representation | Attending all Trustee Board meetings. Representing Southampton Forward at relevant events and meetings, acting as an advocate and spokesperson when appropriate. Acting as Chair to the Finance & Risk Committee |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Advocating for Southampton Forward with supporters and stakeholders, fostering positive relationships. |
| Continuous Learning | Remaining informed about Southampton Forward’s activities and broader issues influencing its work. |
Person Specification:
Please do not be put off applying if you do not meet all the criteria below.
- The post-holder will have knowledge and understanding of current financial practice and experience within financial planning and risk management. Charity finance experience would be beneficial.
- Knowledge and expertise in financial management and accountancy.
- Clearly demonstrate a commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the values of Southampton Forward.
- Understanding the public and political context and operating environment of a cultural and creative industry organisation and demonstrate the ability to think strategically and entrepreneurially within that.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, resulting in good contacts with relevant stakeholder groups and ability to foster additional relationships with partners, stakeholders, funders and other industry figures.
- Ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the board and other stakeholders, comprehend issues and assess risks relating to the operation of Southampton Forward as an organisation.
- Ability to communicate with diplomacy, tact and sensitivity.
- Sound judgement, an understanding of the need to maintain objectivity and an ability to set and maintain professional boundaries.
- Enthusiasm for and commitment to the Southampton Forward’s mission and vision.
- Good understanding of governance issues.
- Knowledge of how the not-for-profit and/or creative industries sector / arts and cultural organisations operate.
- Possesses an understanding of good charity governance, underpinned by the requirements of the Charity Commission and the Seven Principles of Public Life )the “Nolan principles”)
Application Process:
To apply, please email your CV and a covering letter detailing why you are interested in the role, what you feel you can bring to the role and how you meet the Person Specification, to our Finance Manager Hannah Garriock hannahg@sfbranding.local
Applications should be received by midnight Wednesday 24th January 2024.
A recruitment panel comprising of four Board Members will review all applicants. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by 1st February 2024.
First interviews are scheduled to be held in person 14th & 15th February 2024 and second interviews are scheduled in person on the 19th & 20th February 2024.
Southampton Forward is committed to equality of opportunity, values diversity supports, and encourages applications from people in under-represented groups, and. We are looking for people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee’s diversity, skills, and experience, Southampton Forward are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with
To ensure we are working to reduce barriers for people applying, we can offer alternatives to the process outlined above. If you would like to discuss the application process or the Trustee role in any more detail, in the first instance please contact our Finance Manager Hannah Garriock[AM6] via email: hannahg@sfbranding.local .