About the organisation
RUSS is an inspiring community housing initiative that delivers mixed tenure, permanently affordable homes in south London. In 2024, following a long campaign to take over derelict land in Lewisham, we completed 12 Church Grove, the largest community-led, 100% affordable housing project ever realised in the capital. This project received national acclaim, including being named one of The Guardian’s Top 3 Architecture projects of the year.
We are volunteer-led, a charitable Community Benefit Society with around 1,000 members who support our work over time.
In 2026, following extensive community engagement, we submitted proposals to regenerate a second derelict site, the old Ladywell Playtower, a heritage listed asset and in a state of neglect. We imagine that this can, as a multi-use site plus housing, can be a force for community economic development in an area of high need in London.
“The Londoners who are building sustainable communities.” Big Issue, November 2025
About the role
The Treasurer is a trustee and volunteer director with overall responsibility for financial stewardship at RUSS. The role supports the organisation as it transitions from delivering its first development into long-term housing management and future growth.
The Treasurer ensures that financial decision-making underpins affordability, resilience and social mission, while meeting regulatory and governance requirements.
This is a hands-on strategic role in a values-led, community-controlled housing organisation.
RUSS is now managing completed homes, service charges and long-term assets for the first time. The organisation carries social investment debt and must plan clearly for refinancing and future projects. Strong financial leadership is essential to protect residents, affordability and community control. The Treasurer plays a key role in shaping RUSS’s next phase of stability, growth and impact.
A full Role Profile can be found on https://reachvolunteering.org.uk/opp/treasurer-community-land-trust-0 - and we encourage people interested in the role to apply by registering online through this.
Our ideal candidate
Desirable Skills and Experience
•Experience: Professional background in finance, accounting, or housing management.
•Skills: Ability to explain complex financial data to non-experts; experience with social investment or Community Land Trust models is a plus.
•Commitment: Ability to lead a "sprint" during peak periods (e.g. audit season or new project launches).
What’s in it for you
You will learn through your engagement as a trustee, developing your skills and your curiosity. The role offers leadership growth and impact opportunities.
RUSS is an inspiring project and at a time of acute housing need, this is chance to be part of something ambitious, well-led and with momentum.
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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