Treasurer Role Description – Portobello Town Hall
The Treasurer plays a key role in supporting the financial health, transparency and long-term sustainability of Portobello Town Hall. As part of the board of trustees the Treasurer helps ensure that our finances are properly managed, accurately reported and aligned with our charitable aims as a community and cultural hub in Portobello.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain oversight of Portobello Town Halls financial affairs and help ensure financial viability.
- Work with fellow trustees and staff to develop and monitor budgets.
- Present clear financial reports at board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.
- Support the preparation of annual accounts and liaise with the independent examiner.
- Process payments including payroll.
- Liaise with staff regarding the accounting treatment of transactions.
- Help ensure proper financial controls, record-keeping and authorisation processes are in place.
- Monitor cash flow, income and expenditure, and highlight any financial risks or issues promptly.
- Ensure that statutory returns and financial reporting obligations are met in line with Scottish charity requirements.
- Support the board in understanding the financial implications of plans, projects and funding applications.
- Oversee banking arrangements and act as a signatory.
- Promote good governance and accountability in all financial matters.
General Trustee Responsibilities
- Act at all times in the best interests of Portobello Town Hall and in furtherance of its charitable purposes.
- Work collectively with fellow trustees to provide effective governance, strategic direction and oversight.
- Exercise care, diligence and sound judgement in decision-making.
- Help ensure the organisation complies with its governing document, relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
- Declare and manage any conflicts of interest appropriately.
- Safeguard the organisation’s assets, reputation and long-term sustainability.
- Contribute to board meetings, policy development and major decisions affecting the organisation.
- Support an inclusive, respectful and constructive board culture.
- Maintain appropriate confidentiality while being open and accountable in the organisation’s governance.
- Take part in induction, training and ongoing development where appropriate to fulfil the role effectively.
Person Specification
- An interest in supporting Portobello Town Hall’s charitable and community purpose.
- Good financial awareness and the ability to interpret financial information confidently.
- Experience in bookkeeping, budgeting, accounting or financial management.
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
- Attention to detail, sound judgement and a commitment to accuracy and transparency.
- Ability to work collaboratively with trustees, staff, volunteers and external advisers.
- Understanding of good governance and a willingness to meet relevant legal and regulatory responsibilities.
- Reliability, integrity and a commitment to acting in the best interests of the organisation.
Time Commitment and Accountability
This is voluntary role. The Treasurer is expected to attend regular meetings, contribute to financial planning and review, and provide additional support at key points in the financial year such as budget setting, year-end accounts and annual reporting.
What the Role Offers
- The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to an important local community venue.
- A chance to use and develop financial, governance and leadership skills.
- The satisfaction of helping support arts, culture and community activity in Portobello.
- Our current Treasurer will provide a full handover and be available to assist after standing down in November.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this role, please send a short expression of interest outlining your relevant experience and why you would like to support Portobello Town Hall. Applications can be submitted to Beth on recruitment@portobellotownhall.org and informal enquiries are welcome.
