* This not-for-profit Executive Board position presents a unique opportunity to contribute critical financial skills to support a respected professional society promoting ecological research, policy and principles.
* The Treasurer chairs the Financial Governance Working Group (FGWG) and is accountable for delivering on the Group's terms of reference.
* The Treasurer-elect role understudies the outgoing Treasurer prior to succession
* The position carries an Honorarium of $3000 pa
* Funded travel to attend annual ESA Board Planning Day linked to the ESA annual conference is provided (2026 in Brisbane, Qld)
The Organisation:
The Ecological Society of Australia (ESA) is a not for profit professional membership organisation that has been promoting and coordinating ecological research and supporting professional ecologists across Australia for over 65 years. The work of our members expands our knowledge and understanding of Australia's environments, and directly contributes to the conservation and management of our species and ecosystems. We are passionate about supporting our members so they can excel in their work, and through that have a positive and tangible impact on our world.
Position overview:
The Treasurer is a member of the Executive Board and has a minimum expected term of 3 years and a maximum term of 6 years. A Treasurer-elect role is appointed prior to the incumbent stepping off the Board with the purpose of understudying the role prior to appointment at the AGM held in November.
This role provides financial expertise and oversight to the Board and to the management of the Society's finances. This includes oversight of financial governance and process, and contribution to the financial literacy of the Board, whilst assisting with operational matters where requested by the Finance Officer or CEO. This can include financial governance advice, investment portfolio advice, assisting in discussions with auditors regarding year end accounts, review of monthly Finance reports, and approval of bank payments.
Financial management and accounting skills are highly desirable and experience in the Not for Profit sector would be an advantage.
The responsibilities of the Financial Governance Working Group are to:
* With input from the Board, develop an annual budget for the Board's endorsement, and monitor expenditures and receipts against that budget
* Recommend to the Board within-year adjustments to the budget with an aim to deliver sustainable overall financial performance
* Recommend to the Board annual adjustments to membership fees and annual conference registration rates
* Seek to identify and enhance financial management practices and process of the organisation
* Seek to identify new cost-savings and revenue-raising measures for the company
* Perform bank account signatory responsibilities on behalf of the Board (for operating and investment accounts)
* Monitor the performance of invested monies and develop processes and recommendations for changing investment vehicles when necessary
* Monitor the performance of contracted-services and recommend to the Board changes in service providers where necessary
* Monitor compliance of Public Fund and other statutory financial responsibilities (e.g. timing of BAS and Superannuation payments)
* Undertake succession planning for the role of Treasurer
FGWG Membership
The Financial Governance Working Group membership includes the Treasurer (Chair), President, VP – Membership & Communications, Executive Officer, Immediate Past President or President-elect (when relevant), Treasurer-elect (when relevant) and contracted Financial Management service providers or staff.
Meeting Schedule:
The Financial Governance Working Group meets virtually on a quarterly basis – this role should provide a report to each meeting. This position would also need to attend a minimum of four Board meetings per year and, if possible, the ESA Board annual Strategic Planning Day held prior to the annual conference (this year to be held in Brisbane in November 2026). Travel and accommodation are funded by the Society. Day to day business is conducted via online meetings and email.
Time Commitment:
Time required to commit to the position is estimated at a maximum of 1-2 days per month. The role is supported by the ESA Finance Officer providing operational and administrative functions.
Remuneration:
The role of Treasurer is supported by an honorarium of $3000 p.a.
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