About the organisation
The Besson Street Trust works to provide positive opportunities to local people of all ages and backgrounds. We want to support our local community to lead happy, healthy, stable and fulfilled lives. We want to help build a community in New Cross Gate that is inclusive, confident and ambitious for themselves and for the area, supporting one another to achieve our full potential.
We are based in the beautiful Besson Street Community Gardens – a real working, fruit-and-veg growing garden with a variety of exotic, ornamental and native species. This provides the setting for our community space, where many of our activities are delivered.
We also support other local charities and community groups to deliver a wider range of community services elsewhere in New Cross Gate.
We also provide training and development support to local groups to strengthen their skills and capacity, to develop their services, and to build the strength of their organisations. We aim to work in partnership with other groups wherever possible to build the range and quality of services and support available to local people.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission is to work with local people to develop resilience, increase self-confidence and improve wellbeing. We achieve this by delivering opportunities for lifelong learning, encouraging healthy lifestyles, building social networks and enhancing the environment.
Our Vision is a connected community in New Cross Gate, with better opportunities and improved health and wellbeing outcomes, creating positive change for residents.
Further information on our history and the great work we do can be found on our website - https://www.bessonstreet.org.uk/
About the role
Role Overview
As our Treasurer, you will join our fantastic and engaged Board of Trustees to take the lead in overseeing the Trust’s financial wellbeing. You’ll work closely with our Finance Manager and fellow trustees to make sure our finances are well managed and transparent, and that the charity remains on a sound and sustainable footing.
Your role will combine strategic oversight with practical financial insight. You’ll help us understand the story behind the numbers, make informed recommendations about investments and budgets, and ensure we meet our governance obligations.
Key Responsibilities
- Attend Board of Trustees meetings and chair Finance & General Purposes Committee (held on alternating months, usually in the evening for 90 minutes)
- Present clear, accessible financial summaries to the Board when required
- Advise the Board on financial governance, relevant policy and risk management
- Review quarterly and annual accounts, budgets, and forecasts, making recommendations where needed
- Advise the Board on financial governance, risk and investment strategy
- Support the Finance Manager in monitoring the Trust’s financial position and planning for future sustainability
- Liaise with professional advisers where needed
- Ensure compliance with charity finance regulations and internal controls
You will receive assistance as required from both Trust Staff and Board members.
The time demands of the role will be limited - with duties concentrated around board meetings and annual returns. Board and FGP meetings generally take place on Thursday evenings.
Our ideal candidate
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in budgeting, financial planning and/or accounting preferably backed with a professional finance qualification
- Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly
- Ability to compare and recommend investment products
- Sound judgement and a collaborative approach to decision-making
- An interest in strengthening communities and supporting local initiatives
- A good understanding of charity finance would be an advantage
- Previous experience of serving as a Trustee would be an advantage
What’s in it for you
This is an excellent opportunity to:
- Build your CV
- Gain valuable experience in the charity sector and company law
- Increase skills and knowledge around charity governance
- Give something back to the local community
- Be part of a vibrant local organisation
Previous experience of similar roles is desirable but not essential, as is knowledge of relevant company and charitable law.
The Trust Board would be happy to discuss the development of the role to suit your interests.
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.
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