About the organisation
The Cosmic House is a unique small museum and cultural charity dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the architectural legacy of Charles Jencks and the story of postmodern design. As a young and growing organisation, it relies on an active Board of Trustees to provide strong governance, strategic guidance, and financial stewardship.
The Cosmic House is an educational charity that runs a diverse program of cultural events: including exhibitions, conferences and salons, both in its grade-1 listed home in West London, and beyond. The charity was established in 2021, and this new trustee role will help enable these programs which are built on Charles Jencks’ legacy, spanning expertise in science, the arts, philosophy, poetry and cancer care. We are committed to building a Board of Trustees that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
About the role
Location: London (meetings hybrid)
Commitment: Approx. 4 board meetings per year
Reporting to: Chair of Trustees
Role type: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
The Trustee (Finance & Treasury) will play a key part in ensuring that The Cosmic House remains financially resilient and well-governed. They will bring accountancy and financial management experience to the Board, offering oversight of budgets, cashflow, risk, and compliance. Working closely with the Director, Deputy Director and external accountants, the trustee will help strengthen financial systems and support long-term sustainability. The 2026-27 annual income is projected to be just under 1 million.
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Strategy
Contribute to the overall strategic direction of The Cosmic House as a full member of the Board of Trustees.
Ensure compliance with charity law, financial regulations, and the charity’s governing document.
Help maintain a strong culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making.
Help shape the long-term viability of the organisation
Finance Leadership
Provide financial oversight, ensuring robust budgeting, reporting, and forecasting processes.
Act as board-level point of contact for the external accountants who work with the deputy director to prepare the end of year accounts, and quarterly book- keeping. A financial subcommittee may be formed to ensure efficient coordination.
Review and advise on annual budgets, management accounts, and year-end financial statements.
Support the monitoring of cashflow, reserves, and investment or treasury activity by the Deputy Director.
Work with the Chair. Director and Deputy Director to ensure financial risks are identified and managed.
Act as the Board’s lead voice on finance, explaining financial matters clearly to trustees from non-finance backgrounds.
Operational Support
Aid the Deputy Director to liaise with the charity’s external accountant to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
Review and help strengthen internal financial controls and procedures.
Advise on financial aspects of fundraising, grant management, commercial activities, and compliance requirements.
Join events at the house and be an ambassador for the museum
Our ideal candidate
Essential
- Professional experience in accountancy, finance, audit, or treasury management.
- Ability to analyse financial reports, assess risks, and communicate key issues clearly.
- Commitment to the aims, values, and long-term sustainability of The Cosmic House.
- Willingness to take on legal responsibilities as a charity trustee.
- Sound judgement, integrity, and a collaborative approach.
Desirable
- A formal accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
- Experience working with charities, cultural organisations, or small organisations with limited resources.
- An interest in architecture, design, culture, or museums.
Time Commitment
- Attendance at approximately 4 trustee meetings per year (in person or hybrid).
- Preparation time to review papers and financial reports.
- Occasional ad-hoc support to staff on finance matters, and acting on a possible financial sub-Committee if it is felt to be necessary.
- Trustees are appointed for a renewable fixed term (typically three years).
- Attending various events at the house or off-site to engage with the work of the charity.
What’s in it for you
- An opportunity to help shape the resilience of a unique cultural institution.
- A collaborative, engaged board and a small, passionate staff team. Members are, or have been, leading international institutions such as the Victoria and Albert (V+A) museum, and Christie’s auction house.
- A chance to contribute to the preservation of an internationally significant architectural landmark, and interact with world-leading and prize-winning architects and artists who are shaping the global cultural discourse.
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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