About the organisation
Our History
The Society of Designer Craftsmen is one of the oldest and most highly regarded arts and crafts societies in the UK. Formed as the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society in 1887 with Walter Crane as the society's first President, the purpose was to give a voice to, and to organise exhibitions for a growing body of designer-makers. William Morris followed Crane as President of the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society in 1891 and in 1960 the name was changed to the Society of Designer Craftsmen.
About Us
Our national membership of circa 500 artisans is made up of professional designer makers across various craft disciplines, including Ceramics, Wood, Metal, Glass & Textiles. We are one of the largest multi-craft societies in the UK and support our members through major exhibitions, professional and creative networks, workshops, mentoring and many other events and initiatives
The Society gives our members professional recognition at all stages of their careers and provides a valuable network amongst its members and through its many links with other creative organisations.
All our makers are designers and craftsmen and are selected for their strong and innovative design sense with the skills, craftsmanship and sensitivity to materials to make the objects they design.
The Society is run by a dedicated Council of current Society members, the majority of whom have a professional craft background. Our current president is Sir Christopher Frayling. We are a registered charity, and our stated objectives are to:
· advance the education of the public by the encouragement and promotion of good design and fine craftsmanship particularly of new and original work
· maintain and enhance the high standards of design and craftsmanship
· foster public understanding and interest therein
· encourage the training and education of new and young Designer-Craftsmen
About the role
Principal Responsibilities
In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee the Treasurer will enable the Council to achieve plans to strengthen the Society and expand its activities through robust financial planning and management. The duties of the Treasurer include the following: -
· Lead and direct the Council of Trustees on financial matters
· Contribute to the wider SDC strategy and direction
· Maintain an overview of the Society’s financial status to ensure its financial viability and ensure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained
· Ensure that the Society has an appropriate reserves policy
· Maintain Risk Management Policy
· Advise on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans
· Set and monitor project budgets; liaising with Exhibition Committees and Trustees on individual budgets
· Prepare and present financial reports for Council Meetings
· Liaise with Chairman, Bookkeeper, Xero Administrator to ensure: -
- An accurate and timely set of accounts is produced at the financial year end to submit for audit
- Basic Controls, systems for budgeting, financial control and reporting are in place within the finance committee, keep the Council informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
· Present annual returns to the Chair for signature to ensure timely submission to Companies House and Charity Commission
· Liaise with the Chair and other trustees to ensure that the Annual Accounts are available to the Chair for signing following the Annual Audit
· Prepare the Treasurers Report for the AGM and make a formal presentation of the accounts at the AGM to members drawing attention to important points
· Respond to, and act on, the Auditors’ Management Letter following the annual audit.
· Liaise with the accountant and auditor on financial matters or changes in HMRC or accountancy rules
· Contribute to the fundraising strategy of the organisation
Our ideal candidate
· Relevant financial qualifications and ideally experience of charity financial governance principles and practices.
· Knowledge or interest in the Creative Industries, specifically the Craft sector, desirable
· Knowledge of XERO accounting desirable but not essential. Training is available.
· Some experience of charity fundraising would be desirable
· Great organisational skills and attention to detail
· Good communication and interpersonal skills, tact, diplomacy and integrity
· Exercise sound judgement
· Strong collaboration skills and an ability to positively persuade and influence
· Highly resilient and able to deal with ambiguity
· Be prepared to make unpopular recommendations to the Council if necessary
What’s in it for you
The organisation is at an exciting phase of development and a new Treasurer could make a huge difference to what we can acheive. It's a fantastic opportunity for anyone who enjoys craft as opportunities for attending shows and private views and networking with other organisations in the sector abound!
Apply for the role
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