About UnityMK
UnityMK is a Milton Keynes charity supporting people in our city who are without a safe or stable place to call home. Our mission is to break the cycle of housing crisis by providing holistic pathways of support that empower individuals to feel valued, connected and able to thrive. We offer a range of practical and emotional services- from emergency accommodation and winter night shelter provision to welfare advice, meals, showers, laundry facilities and support with housing, benefits and wellbeing- all delivered with dignity and compassion.
Role Description
The Volunteer Finance Trustee (Treasurer) is responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of UnityMK's financial affairs, ensuring the charity's long-term financial sustainability, robust financial controls, and full compliance with charity and company law.
As a Trustee, the post-holder shares collective responsibility for the governance, strategic direction and effective management of UnityMK in pursuit of its charitable objectives supporting people experiencing homelessness.
Key Responsibilities
Trustee Responsibilities
Act in the best interests of UnityMK and ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and all relevant regulations.
Ensure UnityMK pursues its charitable objects effectively and applies its resources appropriately.
Contribute actively to the Board's strategic leadership, including setting goals, approving policy, monitoring performance and managing risk.
Ensure expenditure aligns with UnityMK's charitable objectives.
Alongside fellow Trustees, appoint, support and hold the Chief Executive Officer to account for performance.
Act as an ambassador for UnityMK, supporting its profile, partnerships and reputation.
Finance & Treasurer Responsibilities
Maintain oversight of UnityMK's financial affairs and ensure the charity remains financially viable.
Oversee the finalisation and presentation of monthly management accounts, quarterly finance reports for Trustees, annual budgets and statutory accounts, supported by the Finance Manager and CEO.
Review financial information and provide assurance to the Board on financial performance, cash flow, reserves and risks identified.
Ensure Trustees approve all appropriate financial policies required to be in place, including reserves, borrowing requirements, investment and financial controls.
Support the CEO's line management of the Finance Manager by providing technical advice and challenge where appropriate (without taking on an operational management role).
Liaise with external auditors/independent reviewer, including attending audit planning and/or clearance meetings, and present audit findings to the Board.
Act as bank signatory and approve payments above agreed thresholds in line with delegated authority.
Review of finalisation of financial papers prepared by the UnityMK in-house Finance Manager (monthly management accounts, quarterly finance report, annual budget and annual statutory accounts).
Contribute to discussions on fundraising strategy, budgeting and longer-term financial planning with the CEO and appropriate staff.
Ensure compliance with Charity SORP and other relevant financial reporting requirements.
Time Commitment
Attendance at four Board meetings per year (2–3 hours each, typically 4.30–7.00pm), usually held in person at The Ridgeway Centre, Milton Keynes.
Attendance at annual audit meetings when required (approximately 1 hour each).
Participation in at least one project visit per year.
Additional ad-hoc engagement with the CEO or Finance Manager as required.
Person Specification
Essential
A strong financial background; CCAB qualified accountant with working knowledge of Charity SORP.
Ability to understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of being a charity trustee.
Strategic thinker with sound, independent judgement and the ability to challenge constructively.
Experience of working with external professionals (bank, audit).
Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
Commitment to UnityMK's mission and values, with enthusiasm for contributing to its development.
Skilled at networking and relationship building, and able to act as an ambassador for UnityMK.
Desirable
Direct experience of charity, voluntary or homelessness sector.
Experience working with or alongside grant-funded organisations.
Knowledge of fundraising finance, restricted funds, reserves planning or investment management.
Experience of operating at Board or senior leadership level.
To apply
Applicants are asked to submit the following to
A short expression of interest outlining their motivation for becoming a trustee of UnityMK, and the skills, experience, or lived experience they would bring to the Board
A CV
Shortlisted candidates will need to be available for an informal conversation, potentially followed by an in-person discussion and attendance at a meeting.
Please be prepared to provide at least two appropriate references if asked to do so.
UnityMK is an equal opportunities organisation and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds. A DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.
(Registered Charity