The Rift Valley Institute (RVI) Board of Trustees is seeking to appoint a Treasurer.

The RVI is an independent, not-for-profit, knowledge-based organisation founded in 2001 to advance understanding of the countries and peoples of Eastern and Central Africa through research, education and public information. Our vision is to make local knowledge work for the benefit of the people of Eastern and Central Africa. The Institute is a UK registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, with offices in Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somaliland and the UK.

Role of Trustees

The RVI Board is responsible for corporate governance. It advises and makes decisions that help the Institute to set and pursue strategies in line with its mission. Its general powers and functions are laid down in UK legislation, the Charity Commission’s rules and guidelines, and the Rift Valley Institute’s Articles of Association. The Board has ultimate authority and accountability for the way in which the Institute is governed. Our Board composition reflects our commitment to diversity and equity.

Role of Treasurer

RVI is looking to appoint a Treasurer, to be based in the UK, who is interested in RVI’s mission and work, is committed to good governance, and who understands and accepts the legal duties and responsibilities of being a trustee of a charitable organisation.

In addition to the normal duties of a charity trustee, the Treasurer has the following duties:

• Guide and advise the board on the approval of budgets and annual financial statements.
• Monitor the annual budget through management accounts.
• Ensure trustees receive the necessary financial reports and information that enable them to monitor RVI’s financial position and approve the annual financial accounts.
• Ensure that financial systems are in place that provide complete and accurate records of the RVI’s transactions.
• Support management to formulate appropriate financial policies that support the charity’s development strategy.
• Ensure adequate systems of financial control are in place.
• Provide strategic advice to the board on financial matters, including the financial implications of strategic plans.
• Oversee RVI’s management of financial risk and advise on the financial viability of the Institute.
• Liaise with the external auditors on issues of Board interest or concern as they arise.
• Regularly meet and correspond with the Finance Director of the charity.
• Act as a signatory on bank accounts, cheques and important documents as necessary.

Qualifications

RVI is seeking a Treasurer who is a professionally qualified accountant (ACCA, ICA, CIMA, CIPFA, ACT or equivalent) who is familiar with UK accounting regulations and charity finance practices.

Experience and Skills

RVI is seeking to appoint a Treasurer with the following experience and skills:

• Five years working in financial and management accounting, including managing complex budgets.
• Experience of working with institutional donors in the charity sector. 
• Good independent judgement and strong communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively, demonstrating interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and staff.
• Experience in mentoring colleagues.
• Experience in chairing meetings.
• Willingness and ability to dedicate sufficient time to the role.
• Actively contribute to Board meetings and relevant sub-committees.

Time Commitment

The RVI Board meets four times a year for up to three hours each meeting. Three meetings will be via teleconferencing with a fourth in-person in East Africa. Trustees may occasionally be asked to provide additional advice and support to RVI staff and to represent the Institute in public events.

Tenure

Trustees are appointed for a period of three years and may serve two consecutive terms.

Remuneration

The position of trustee is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses incurred fulfilling the duties of the trustee will be reimbursed subject to the limits set out in RVI’s expenses policy.

Applications

If you are interested in becoming a Treasurer, please submit a CV and covering letter (maximum one page) explaining your interest in joining the Board and what skills and experience you will bring to the role. Please address your application to Amleset Tewodros (amleset.tewodros@riftvalley.net) Head of Organisational Development. Short-listed candidates will be interviewed before an appointment is made.

RVI is committed to safeguarding people in our work. Appointments will be subject to vetting checks, including a criminal record disclosure.

Closing date for applications: 29 February 2024

Interviews: March 2024