About the organisation
The Judge’s Lodging exists to interpret and preserve the history of Radnorshire’s late-Georgian courthouse and associated Judge’s Lodgings Hall, providing visitors with a portrayal of an authentic period courthouse and a working 1870’s Victorian house. An Accredited Museum, The Judge’s Lodging attracts ~ 5000 visitors a year and plays an essential part in the economic prosperity of Presteigne being the town’s principal visitor attraction.
Designed by Shrewsbury architect Edward Haycock and constructed between 1826-29 to house the Radnorshire Assize Court and Judge’s Lodging, the building’s significance is recognised by its Grade II* listing, awarded in November 1950. The house retains many of its original furnishings: it was painstakingly restored (including gas lighting) and opened in 1996 as a wholly authentic, ‘hands-on’ Victorian lodging and court room, interpreting law and order in 19th century society through exhibitions, events, and educational visits. It has won awards from Hudson Heritage (2014 Best Hidden Gem), Interpret Britain, Good Guide to Britain, Best of British, the Heritage Education Trust, TripAdvisor (Award of Excellence 2015) and, more recently, as a finalist in the ‘Best Day Out’ category of the Welsh Hospitality Awards in 2018 and 2019, on the latter occasion receiving a ‘highly recommended’ commendation.
A visit to the Judge’s Lodging offers an unusual journey back in time: visitors are able to make themselves at home, lie on the beds, read the Judge’s books. Below stairs there are kitchens where you can pump water, servants’ sleeping quarters and workrooms, and a prisoner cell. The self-directed tour ends in the courtroom. Included in the ticket price is an audio tour, available in both English and Welsh.
The museum operates a successful educational programme for schools with specific activities targeted at KS 1 – 3. Our ‘hands-on’ policy creates an interactive and dynamic environment in which daily life and law and order in Victorian Britain can be explored. We also provide tailored tours for Further Education (FE) and leisure groups. We have held a Sandford Award for Heritage Education for 21 years.
The museum has an annual programme of community exhibitions and provides activities and trails for children throughout the year. The building is often used for ‘non museum’ functions, including the installation of the High Sheriff of Powys, weddings and civil partnership ceremonies, private functions, and filming.
Originally substantially funded by Powys County Council, since 2016, the museum has been operated by The Judge’s Lodging Trust. We currently employee one full-time and up to four seasonal part-time staff. The staff are supported by a team of volunteers who work across all aspects of the business.
It’s an exciting time for The Judge’s Lodging. The Trust is in the early stages of a major capital works project to convert unused parts of the heritage building into holiday lets. This project will be funded in the most part by grants from the NLHF and Community Ownership Fund grant. Once operational, the flats will provide a sustainable source of income for this valuable heritage asset on the Welsh border.
About the role
The Judge’s Lodging is seeking a skilled accountant to join the Board of Directors as Treasurer. The position requires someone with strong financial management and accounting skills, as well as the ability to oversee financial processes and ensure compliance with statutory obligations.
The Treasurer will be responsible for:
- Selecting, setting up, and providing ongoing support for a new accounting system (eg., QuickBooks, Xero). This will include training the Museum Manager and relevant staff on the system.
- Setting up a payroll system and providing ongoing support for paying wages. This can either be integrated into the new accounting system or done using HMRC’s online platform.
- Producing and submitting annual accounts to Companies House and the Charity Commission, ensuring all records meet legal and regulatory standards.
- Producing financial reports for Board meetings, including monthly income and expenditure summaries, cash flow forecasts, and updates on the progress of the capital works project.
- Setting annual operational budgets, working closely with the Board and Museum Manager to ensure realistic financial planning.
- Liaising with external auditors, ensuring that the organisation’s accounts are thoroughly and accurately audited annually.
This role provides ongoing support. Trustees are initially appointed for three years and may seek reappointment for an additional three years, with a maximum service of six consecutive years unless the Board decides otherwise.
The Board of Directors meets every six to eight weeks, either in person or virtually. The Treasurer will be required to attend these meetings to present financial reports and updates on the organisation's financial standing. Additional Board meetings may be convened as needed to address specific issues, such as financial planning for the capital works or other major developments.
Our ideal candidate
We are seeking a motivated and experienced individual with strong financial expertise, particularly in accounting and financial management. Ideally we want someone who is excited about contributing to a heritage project that will provide long-term sustainability to the organisation. The ideal candidate will have both technical skills and a passion for supporting a historic site that plays a significant role in the local community. The role would suit somebody who has recently retired.
Financial Management and Accounting Expertise: The primary responsibility of the Treasurer will be to manage the financial health of The Judge’s Lodging. Therefore, the ideal candidate must have a strong background in accounting and financial management, including:
- Selecting and setting up accounting systems, providing training to staff, and offering ongoing support.
- Ensuring compliance with financial regulations and legal obligations.
- Producing accurate and detailed financial reports for Board meetings.
- Managing payroll systems.
- Setting annual operational budgets, and working with the Board to forecast income and expenditure accurately.
Collaborative Mindset: The Treasurer will work closely with other Board members, the Museum Manager, and external auditors. Therefore, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential. The ability to explain complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner to a non-financial audience will help the Board make informed decisions. This role requires someone who can work well in a small, close-knit team and actively contribute to the strategic direction of the Trust.
Attention to Detail and Organisational Skills: The Treasurer must have excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills, ensuring that proper financial records are maintained and all deadlines are met. This includes adhering to the schedules for filing financial statements and reporting to regulatory bodies.
Commitment to the Organisation’s Mission: The ideal candidate should have a passion for preserving heritage and supporting the mission of The Judge’s Lodging. While financial management is the core responsibility, the Treasurer should be invested in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
What’s in it for you
The role provides a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on a valuable heritage site. As Treasurer, you will oversee the financial management of the organisation, ensuring that funds are utilised effectively to support ongoing preservation efforts and enhance the site's role in the local community.
Skill Development: You will develop essential skills in financial management, budgeting, and compliance with charity regulations. This position offers hands-on experience with accounting software, the preparation of financial reports, and the management of grant funding—skills that will enhance your professional profile and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Impact on the Organisation and Community: You will be joining The Judge’s Lodging at an exciting time, as the organisation prepares to undertake a significant capital works project. The project is expected to strengthen local tourism and increase visitor numbers, leading to meaningful benefits for the community. Once operational, it is projected to generate over £520,000 in net economic activity annually, support approximately 16 full-time equivalent jobs, and attract over 2,000 additional visitors to Presteigne each year, enriching the community's cultural landscape and fostering a stronger sense of local pride.
Engagement in Initiatives: In this role, you will have the opportunity to engage in community outreach events and initiatives associated with The Judge’s Lodging. This involvement will allow you to see the tangible impacts of your contributions on the heritage site and the local community, enhancing your professional experience while supporting meaningful projects.
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