Treasurer (Trustee role)

Could you be the next Yellow Submarine treasurer?
We're looking for a confident and experienced financial hand, with time to give, who shares our passion and ambition to make a difference. Read on to find out more about this rewarding role...
 

Background

Yellow Submarine is a highly successful, innovative Oxfordshire charity that empowers people with learning disabilities and autism to live life to the full. Through activities, work opportunities, and holidays, we support individuals in achieving their potential. We're a diverse organisation in so far as we run three different social enterprises (two award-winning cafes as well as 'Life Changing Bakes') which complement our charitable objectives. We're all proud that Yellow Submarine is an outstanding, high-achieving organisation that is deeply valued by its beneficiaries. At the same time, those involved – including our trustees – often find that the rewards of contributing far exceed what they give.
 

The role of Treasurer has recently become vacant, and we are now inviting applications. The charity is supported by a strong trustee group, highly competent managers, and dedicated staff. With income and expenditure hovering around £1 million, plus reserves bolstered by a recent endowment, we are in a healthy financial position.
 

Our Board consists of six trustees. We are a friendly, diverse group and are involved because we are enthusiastic to maximise the charity's impact.
 

Three benefits of becoming a trustee:
 

1. Make a difference - Becoming a trustee allows you to give back to a cause you care about. You’ll play an integral role in ensuring the charity remains sustainable and financially sound.
2. Build connections - Joining a charity like Yellow Submarine is a great way to meet new people from diverse personal and professional backgrounds.
3. Grow and develop - While your professional skills will make a valuable contribution, this role offers an opportunity to learn new things and gain experience in charity governance.

Main responsibilities of the Treasurer

• Ensure Yellow Submarine’s finances are used appropriately, prudently, and in line with its charitable objects and funding agreements.
• Oversee the charity’s solvency and financial effectiveness.
• Oversight of the Yellow Submarine finance staff to ensure
  • accurate and up-to-date accounting records are maintained.
  • management of restricted and unrestricted funds are compliant with any restrictions.
  • timely preparation of charity accounts and Annual Reports, submitted to Companies House and the Charity Commission as required.
• Sit on the Pay and Remuneration Committee (meeting annually to review pay and staff remuneration).
• Contribute to ad hoc committees or task forces as appropriate.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who:

• Has enthusiasm and can commit around four hours per month to the role.
• Aligns with the purpose and aims of Yellow Submarine.
• Has professional experience in financial management or as an accountant and is ideally familiar with online tools like Xero.
• Brings practical experience of strategic thinking and helping organisations grow.
• Is willing to speak out diplomatically and make sound judgments.

Expectations

• All trustees, including the Treasurer, must complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which will be arranged by Yellow Submarine.
• Trustees may be required to take part in governance and safeguarding training.
• Board meetings are held every three months in Oxford, typically during the week from 5.30 –7 pm. While remote attendance is possible, in-person attendance is preferred. An AGM is held annually in June.
• Trustees are expected to serve a minimum term of three years.
• To serve as Treasurer, you must be over 16 and not disqualified due to bankruptcy, unspent criminal convictions for offences of deception or dishonesty, or a legal order for removal/disqualification as a trustee or company director. Acting as a trustee while disqualified is a criminal offence.

Key dates:

• Closing date for applications: 14th February 2025
• Interviews: Shortly after the closing date, arranged with shortlisted candidates. All applicants will receive a response within a week of the closing date.
• Start date: As soon as background checks are completed.

We are committed to diversity and welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, or age.