About the organisation
Citizens Advice are the people's champion. For 85 years, we've been working on issues that affect the whole of society to help shape a society that's fairer for everybody. No other advice service sees so many people with so many different kinds of problems, and that gives us a unique insight into the challenges people are facing today.
Citizens Advice West Sussex (CAWS) works as part of the national network as an independent local charity. We have an income of circa £2.6 million, employ around 70 staff and are supported by 250 volunteers, working from six locations across the County. We helped 40,000 people in the twelve months to March 2024 (an increase of 9% on the previous year) with challenges such as managing debt, understanding rights at work and housing issues. Our work makes a real difference to local people.
We are recruiting as part of pro-active succession planning and want our Finance Trustee to contribute to our strategic development as we meet the challenges of increasing demand whilst operating within a tough financial environment. We are confident that CAWS is well placed to face these challenges and to deliver the services the people in our communities need.
About the role
Our board currently comprises 8 Trustees who have served between 2 and 8 years. Our Finance Trustee will have served 6 years in 2025 and is planning to step down once a successor is in place and there has been time for a full handover.
The role of the Finance Trustee is to oversee, approve and present budgets, accounts and financial statements as well as prepare and present financial reports to the board. In addition, ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place and liaising with the CEO and the senior team about financial matters and strategy.
Our ideal candidate
Our ideal candidate will feel excited about the work we do and bring the following skills and experience.
A recognised financial qualification or equivalent knowledge gained by experience
The ability to take a strategic approach to financial planning and oversight and to help non-financial colleagues understand these
Previous experience of charity finances or a willingness to gain this through training
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Analytical ability and good independent judgement
What’s in it for you
Becoming a trustee is a fascinating way to engage in the not-for-profit sector as a trustee at CAWS you will have the opportunity to have a real impact on the local community in West Sussex.
Joining a board can be a veryenriching experience, not least because it allows you to adapt and apply everything you have learnt to date into an entirely new context. As a trustee of CAWS, you will be able to combine your own sense of purpose with your expertise and skills to bring a great deal of benefit to others. Recent research has shown that although trusteeship is a significant voluntary undertaking, the majority would recommend it to others.
By becoming our Finance Trustee you will be helping the charity in our mission to continually improve so that we can better serve our community.
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.
Thank you, your application has been submitted
Please enter all required information!
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.