Treasurer for Advicenow

Organisation Overview 

Advicenow equip individuals and communities to deal with life’s legal problems. We do this by providing legal support including information, legal self-help tools, and training to help people use the law. 

We research what works, and collaborate with others to challenge systemic problems through policy and campaigns work. We used to be known as Law for Life. We are a UK based not-for-profit organisation and charity. Collaboration and partnership lies at the heart of what we do so that people can access their rights, challenge unfair decisions, and fight for change.

Role details

In addition to general trustee responsibilities, the Treasurer leads on ensuring the charity's financial wellbeing, accountability, and sustainability by: 

1. Financial Strategy & Leadership

·       Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs and are within the charity’s objects.

·       Advising the Board on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plans.

·       Being instrumental in the development and implementation of appropriate financial, reserves, and investment policies.

·       Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the organisation.

2. Monitoring & Reporting

·       Overseeing, approving, and presenting budgets, accounts, financial statements, and financial reports to the Board of Trustees after discussion with the Chief Executive and Finance Officer.

·       Ensuring that the Board is kept informed of its financial duties and responsibilities in an accessible and timely manner.

·       Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the Annual General Meeting, highlighting key issues in a clear and engaging way.

3. Financial Governance & Compliance

·       Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

·       Liaising with the Chief Executive and Finance Officer to ensure the charity’s annual accounts are prepared in accordance with the current Charities SORP.

·       Liaising with the charity’s auditors where appropriate.

·       Ensuring that equipment and assets are adequately maintained and insured.

4. Governance Support

·       Assisting the Chair, other honorary officers, and the Chief Executive in ensuring the Board of Trustees fulfils its responsibilities for sound financial governance.

Skills and Experience

Essential Experience 

·       Leadership or governance in charity and non-profit, justice & human rights, health, or technology sectors.

·       Strong financial experience, including budget oversight, financial reporting, a solid understanding of charity finance regulations, and a strategic approach to ensuring financial sustainability and the effective use of resources.

·       Experience in building high-level partnerships and fostering collaborations to support the charity’s mission.

·       Professional experience in financial management, accounting, audit, or a senior finance role in a relevant sector.

·       Experience of working with or advising Boards on financial matters, particularly in a charity context.

Desirable experience

·       Lived experience of legal, social, or financial challenges similar to those faced by Advicenow’s service users, offering a first-hand perspective on their needs and barriers to access.

Knowledge and Skills

·       In-depth understanding of financial management principles and charity finance requirements.

·       Strong governance expertise, with a commitment to best practices in charity leadership and financial oversight.

·       Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial information clearly to non-financial trustees and stakeholders.

·       Analytical and problem-solving abilities to support sound financial decision-making.

Personal Qualities

·       Passionate about Advicenow’s mission and values, demonstrating a strong personal commitment to social justice and legal empowerment

·       Ethical and principled, leading by example with integrity with upholding the charity’s reupuation and governance standards.

·       A collaborative and inclusive leader, fostering teamwork, consensus, and an equitable environment within the Board and wider stakeholders.

·       Resilient and adaptable, able to navigate challenges and make difficult decisions when needed.

 Attendance: Remote, with online meetings every quarter (one trustee meeting, one finance committee meeting)

Time commitment: 2-3 hours a month 

To express an interest in this position, please email bicenquiries@weareadvocate.org.uk specifying which opportunity you are interested in.