Job Description

SOS seeks new Treasurer

About SOS

Sumatran orangutans are critically endangered and without urgent action could be the first Great Ape species to become extinct. The Sumatran Orangutan Society (SOS) is dedicated to turning this situation around: our mission is to secure the future of Sumatran orangutans and their forests.

We are a small, nimble and responsive organisation, leveraging impact through strategic partnerships which tackle the causes of deforestation as well as the symptoms. We take a holistic approach, supporting and enabling vital work on the ground in Sumatra through developing effective conservation programmes and partnerships, capacity building and fundraising for frontline organisations, and advocating globally for changes to government policy and corporate practise to enhance conservation outcomes.

Treasurer role

We have a vacancy on the Board of Trustees for an honorary Treasurer, and we are seeking an individual with specific expertise in financial management, governance and administration. We have recently undergone a period of substantial growth, making this a particularly exciting time to join the organisation.

As a trustee of the charity, you will enable SOS to continue to support and expand our portfolio of frontline conservation programmes in Sumatra and advocacy work in the UK and internationally.  In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, the duties of the Treasurer include the following:

• Preparing and presenting financial reports to the board.
• Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy.
• Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• Liaising with staff about financial matters.
• Advising on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy.
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the Charity Commission.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the organisation.
• Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required.

SOS trustees meet quarterly at the SOS offices near Oxford, and are expected to be available for regular consultation and input on a range of issues between meetings. Trustees operate in a voluntary capacity, but SOS will cover all reasonable expenses incurred while exercising your responsibilities.  Details of trustee responsibilities can be found on the UK Charity Commission website.

Application details

If you are interested in becoming a trustee, have an interest in supporting conservation in Indonesia and are able to contribute time to this role, we would be delighted to hear from you.

CVs and expressions of interest should be sent by email, by 26th November 2018. Early applications are encouraged.

SOS is a Registered Charity in England and Wales no. 1158711