About the organisation
MARINElife is a science charity that conducts cetacean and seabird research and monitoring
by gathering information of key marine species so they can be better protected. For over 30 Years, we have carried out research, educational and outreach work on whales, dolphins, seabirds and other marine animals in the oceans of North-west Europe. We also provide relevant, robust and up-to-date information to those working for the sustainable future of our oceans.
The vital work is done in partnership with a wide range of sponsoring bodies from ecotourism through to research institutes and shipping companies. Our goal is to help conserve marine animals and to raise awareness of the threats they face by engaging the public and policymakers.
Everyone here has a passion for the marine environment. Our Trustees play a key role and are responsible for the oversight and governance of the charity, including ensuring the charity has the strategy to deliver its aims. They work as a team on the MARINElife Board of Trustees and also take a hands-on lead on specific topics as required.
Day- to- day operation of the charity is carried out by a small and dedicated team. They work with an enthusiastic community of volunteers and supporters, who survey the seas and deliver the data that forms our important contribution to marine science and conservation.
About the role
We currently have an opportunity for a Trustee to join us who, in addition to a passion for the marine environment, has the skills to contribute to governance of the charity and the ability to take the lead as our Treasurer.
The overall role of our Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the charity’s affairs; ensure they are compliant and that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The successful candidate will work with our administrator who manages the day-to-day finances to oversee the production of necessary financial reports/returns, accounts and audits.
The Trustee role is voluntary; the time requirement will vary but will require on average a one day a month commitment including Quarterly Trustee board meetings.
Our ideal candidate
The Person We’re Looking For:
- Experienced in Finance with a firm understanding of charity finance, knowledgeable in bookkeeping and financial management
- A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity and financial analysis skills to support bids and fundraising activities
- A clear communicator with the ability to explain financial information to the Board of Trustees
- An enthusiastic contributor, willing to play an active role in the development of the Charity and specifically in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, and liaising with auditors
Previous Board or Trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds with a passion for the environment. Our ideal candidate will have previous experience in a finance role within the public or charity sector, knowledge and experience of fundraising finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations and good financial analysis skills.
What’s in it for you
If you are passionate about the environment and want to utilise your skills to support the work of our charity, this is a great opportunity to join our Trustee Board. Our Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of MARINElife, developing its aims, objectives, and goals in accordance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity policies, legal and regulatory obligations.
The Trustees carry out business on behalf of the charity. In your role, as a Trustee, you will help to protect the wealth and assets of the organisation. You will be legally responsible for the assets and any debts.
The Trustee Treasurer will additionally oversee all financial aspects of the charity, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, to ensure appropriate financial oversight. The Treasurer will assist the chair, other honorary officers, and MARINElife employees in ensuring that the Board of Trustees fulfils its duties and responsibilities for the proper financial governance of the charity.
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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