Trustee (Treasurer) – IOU Creation Centre
Volunteer Role | West Yorkshire (Hybrid)
We are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic financial oversight at a pivotal moment in IOU’s development. This is a key governance role, working closely with the Chair, CEO, and Finance Manager to ensure the organisation remains financially resilient, well‑managed, and positioned for sustainable growth. This is an opportunity to apply your financial expertise within an innovative organisation that combines arts, enterprise, and social impact.
About IOU Creation Centre
IOU Creation Centre is a nationally recognised arts charity and an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, based in Calderdale (Halifax and Hebden Bridge), West Yorkshire. For over 50 years, IOU has been a pioneering force in interdisciplinary art, working across performance, digital art, engineering, and creative technology. From our base at Dean Clough Mills and our 14‑bedroom hostel in Hebden Bridge, we support artists and communities to create ambitious, location‑inspired work.
As we approach our 50th anniversary (2026–28), we are entering a new phase of development—expanding our Creation Centre model and strengthening our long‑term financial sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee the financial governance of the charity on behalf of the Board
* Support and constructively challenge financial planning, budgeting, and reporting
* Ensure robust financial controls, systems, and risk management are in place
* Present clear financial updates, enabling all trustees to understand IOU’s financial position
* Chair the Finance Committee
* Oversee relationships with auditors or independent examiners
* Provide guidance on reserves, cashflow, and long‑term sustainability
* Support oversight of IOU’s trading subsidiary (IOU Hostel Ltd)
This is a strategic, non‑executive role. Day‑to‑day financial management is led by our Finance Manager.
Who We’re Looking For
* Professional experience in finance, accounting, or financial leadership
* Strong understanding of governance, financial controls, and risk
* The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non‑financial colleagues
* Strategic insight and sound judgement
* Experience in the charity sector is welcome but not essential.
Time Commitment
* Board meetings: Quarterly (online and in‑person)
* Finance Committee: Monthly (online)
* Occasional additional input as required
* Approximate commitment: 1 day per month
Our Model: Arts + Enterprise
IOU operates a blended model, combining charitable activity with commercial income generation. Our trading subsidiary, IOU Hostel Ltd, operates Hebden Bridge Hostel. All post‑tax profits are returned to the charity, directly supporting our artistic and educational work. This model creates both opportunity and complexity—making strong financial oversight and strategic guidance essential.
Vision
IOU is a pioneering Creation Centre rooted in Calderdale, connecting people, creativity, and place. Based at Dean Clough, Halifax, and the IOU Hostel in Hebden Bridge, we support artists and communities to create, make, and transform their environments, while exploring the outdoors through walking, cycling, and running. We collaborate with partners to promote health, environmental awareness, and creativity. Equity, sustainability, and imagination are central to our inclusive approach, enabling diverse audiences to reconnect with art and nature.
Mission
IOU champions location‑inspired art, engineering, and technology rooted in Calderdale’s landscape. We aim to reimagine Calderdale as a “Future City”—a network of creative rural towns connected to Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool, acting as cultural powerhouses that redefine what a thriving, sustainable, and innovative region can be. We harness creativity, innovation, and collaboration to:
* Amplify Calderdale’s unique cultural identity
* Drive growth, attract visitors, and sustain a creative economy
* Present events celebrating art, creativity, engineering, technology, and landscape
* Celebrate 50 years of IOU (2026–2027) as a pioneering interdisciplinary, site‑specific arts organisation
Our Values
* Inventive – We take creative risks and turn ideas into reality
* Adaptable – We remain responsive and relevant
* Original – We push boundaries across art and technology
* Curious & Brave – We encourage exploration and co‑creation
* Inclusive – We are committed to equity, diversity, and accessibility
* Future‑focused – We support the next generation of artists and change‑makers
Governance & Responsibilities
IOU is governed by a skilled and committed Board of Trustees. Trustees are collectively responsible for:
* Strategic direction and organisational sustainability
* Financial oversight and accountability
* Good governance and regulatory compliance
* Advocacy and external representation
Trustees must comply with guidance from the Charity Commission and relevant charity law. They are also expected to uphold the Nolan Principles of Public Life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.
Eligibility Trustees must not be disqualified under charity law (e.g. due to bankruptcy, disqualification as a director, or certain criminal convictions). Further guidance is available via the UK Government website.
Expenses & Support
* This is a voluntary (unpaid) role
* Reasonable expenses are reimbursed
* Full induction and ongoing support are provided
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.
We particularly welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including disabled people and those with lived experience of accessibility.
How to Apply
Please send:
* A CV (max 2 pages)
* A short cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience
To: joanne@ioucreationcentre.org
For an informal conversation, you are very welcome to get in touch.
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