About the organisation
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is the national charity for rural communities. We champion thriving, sustainable and inclusive rural communities that have the services and resources they need to achieve equitable outcomes for everyone. Ten million people live in the English countryside but these communities are poorly understood. Just as in our towns and cities, there are areas of affluence but these can mask real deprivation. In addition many rural communities face daily challenges as a result of where they live. ACRE is dedicated to addressing these barriers, and helping rural communities to reach their full potential.
ACRE is the only national charity speaking up for everyone in rural areas, and we work closely with our network of 37 member charities who support local communities across England. Together we campaign for change, enable local action, and unlock support for people most in need. We engage with government and other national partners to explore the issues affecting rural communities and identify solutions, so that no one is disadvantaged by where they live.
ACRE has begun an exciting new phase in its evolution. Last year we launched our strategy for 2025-30, Rural Ambition: enabling communities to thrive. It sets out our aim to help improve the quality of life for rural communities and support those in greatest need. It builds on the last five years but also marks a change in focus and pace. We will concentrate on the most important issues facing rural communities, speaking up more boldly and building new alliances. Our strategy is optimistic and ambitious, because we believe there are opportunities as well as unresolved challenges for rural communities. We are also clear that we need to be a resilient organisation if we are going to be successful. The Treasurer will play a key role in making that happen.
About the role
We are seeking a Treasurer with strong financial skills and relevant qualifications to join our Board. The Treasurer will act as the lead trustee for financial oversight and provide guidance on budgeting, planning and sound financial management. With a solid understanding of the regulatory and governance landscape, they will chair the Finance Sub-Committee and provide ad hoc advice and support to the Finance Manager. The post holder will also be a member of the Officers’ Group, consisting of the Chair, two Vice Chairs and Chief Executive/Company Secretary. The group acts as an additional source of advice for the Chief Executive between Board meetings.
The Treasurer will also be expected to use their experience to oversee the delivery of ACRE’s new strategy and charitable objectives, to represent the interests of all stakeholders, and to act as an ambassador for the charity. This includes ensuring we have a robust financial model that will enable us to increase our impact and plan for the longer term. As we increase our financial resilience, we will also work with ACRE network members to help them increase their own, so that together we can make an even greater positive change for rural communities.
Requirements
• Four Board meetings a year – two online and two overnight meetings in person
• Three Finance Sub-Committee meetings a year – online
• Two Officers’ meetings a year – online and in person.
We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to achieving the highest standards of diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, traditions and ways of life.
The ACRE Team is home based. The meetings that take place in person are held in different locations in central England.
Appropriate expenses will be reimbursed in line with our policy.
Our ideal candidate
Responsibilities:
• To undertake the responsibilities and duties of a Trustee and Director of ACRE.
• To Chair the Finance Sub-Committee and lead for the Board on financial matters.
• To provide advice and support to the executive team when required.
• To comply with the statutory duties of a Trustee and Director.
Main Functions:
• To serve as a Trustee and Director of ACRE and attend all meetings of the Board, AGM and General Meetings.
• To support and provide advice on ACRE’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• To approve ACRE’s strategy, annual business plans and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• To oversee the development of ACRE’s annual budgets, forecasting and financial management by the Chief Executive and Finance Manager.
• To advise the Board on ACRE’s longer-term financial position and future income generation planning and delivery.
• To act as a sounding board and source of advice for the Finance Manager on specific issues when required.
• To ensure the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements with regards to financial matters.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• To represent and promote the work of ACRE, to ACRE members and other organisations, potential partners and funders, national and local government, other stakeholders and the general public as appropriate and in line with ACRE’s strategy.
• To reflect the interests of the member organisations and their rural communities in the management and direction of ACRE.
• To use any specific skills, knowledge, expertise or experience to assist the ACRE Board in achieving sound decisions and to provide additional support to the Chief Executive as agreed. This will necessitate:
➢ reading and scrutinising Board documents and papers (in good time before meetings);
➢ leading or participating in discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance (based on individual specific expertise) on new initiatives or other issues;
➢ disseminating accurate information.
What’s in it for you
We are passionate about working with others to create rural communities where no one is disadvantaged because of where they live. We have a strong record of collaborating with government, other third sector organisations, and academics to provide rural advocacy, undertake research and deliver programmes.
Often partners are drawn to working with us because of our unique ability to tap into the knowledge, experience, capacity and geographical coverage of ACRE Network members. Through them, we have unparalleled access to 38,000+ community groups across rural England.
Closing date: 6 pm Monday, 6 April
Online interviews: Monday 20 (AM) and Tuesday 21 April (PM)
Apply for the role
Please provide a short cover note setting out your motivations for volunteering for the organisation, any relevant skills/experience and why you think you might be a suitable candidate.
Opportunity Filled!
It looks like this volunteering role has already been taken. But don't worry, there are plenty more ways you can make a difference!
Welcome to Charterpath!
We specialise in connecting finance professionals with meaningful volunteer opportunities at charities in need of support. If you're eager to use your skills for a great cause, we're here to help you find the perfect match.
Explore more volunteer roles here and don’t forget to join Charterpath (for free) for more opportunities, exclusive events and more.