Voluntary Trustee Role - (Finance Expertise)
Gloucestershire / Hybrid
Do you have senior finance experience and want to use your expertise to support a much-loved national charity?
Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum (FoWA) is seeking a qualified accountant to join our Board of Trustees and help shape the future of one of the UK's most important tree collections and environmental organisations. FoWA supports Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, through fundraising, membership, grant-making and public engagement activities, helping deliver a shared vision to be a world leader in trees, inspiring people through conservation, education and participation.
The Opportunity
We are looking for an experienced finance professional to bring strategic financial insight and expertise to our Board.
This is not a Treasurer role and does not involve operational financial management. The charity employs a Finance Director who leads all day-to-day finance activities. Instead, we are seeking someone who can provide high-level financial oversight, constructive challenge and informed advice to support Board decision-making and long-term sustainability, alongside the Treasurer Trustee.
As a Trustee, you will contribute to the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity while helping fellow Board members understand the financial implications of key decisions.
We Are Looking For
Essential:
- A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Senior-level finance leadership experience
- Strong strategic and commercial financial acumen
- Experience of financial planning, risk management and governance
- Ability to analyse complex information and communicate effectively with non-financial colleagues
- Sound judgement and the confidence to provide constructive challenge
- A commitment to the values and purpose of the charity
Desirable:
- Previous Board, Trustee or Non-Executive Director experience
- Experience within the charity sector
- Knowledge of investments, audit, enterprise activities or organisational transformation
- Time Commitment
- Four Board meetings per year
- One annual strategy session
- Preparation and reading in advance of meetings
- Participation in the Finance & Risk Panel (4 meetings per year) or other working groups as appropriate
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to use your expertise to make a meaningful contribution to a respected and ambitious charity with over 39,000 members and a close partnership with Forestry England. You'll help ensure the organisation remains financially resilient and well-positioned to support Westonbirt's future for generations to come.
Location: Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire
Closing date is 24 August 2026. Shortlisted candidates will meet with the CEO and FD on 1 September 2026 and interviews with Chair and other trustees will be held on 25 September 2026.
To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter by clicking on Apply Now, outlining your interest, relevant experience and the value you would bring to the Board.
Salary: Voluntary position. Reasonable expenses reimbursed.
