The Role of the Treasurer

The Treasurer is an officer of a charity or voluntary organisation who takes a lead role in overseeing its financial affairs. While the Treasurer often has specific responsibilities relating to finance, all charity trustees share collective responsibility for the organisation's finances and financial governance. The Treasurer helps the board understand the organisation’s financial position and supports informed decision-making. This typically includes overseeing the preparation of budgets, monitoring income and expenditure, reviewing financial reports, and helping to ensure that appropriate financial controls are in place. The Treasurer may also present financial information to board meetings and annual general meetings, helping trustees and members understand the organisation's financial health.

Oversight

A key aspect of the role is ensuring that the charity meets its financial obligations, including maintaining accurate financial records, preparing annual accounts, and complying with relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

In larger organisations, many day-to-day financial tasks may be carried out by staff or professional advisers. In these circumstances, the Treasurer's role is focused on oversight and assurance rather than direct financial administration. The Treasurer also plays an important role in identifying financial risks and opportunities. This may include monitoring cash flow, reviewing reserves, considering long-term financial sustainability, and supporting fundraising or income generation strategies where appropriate.

Experience and skills

Although financial knowledge is helpful, a Treasurer does not necessarily need to be an accountant. More important are the ability to understand financial information, ask appropriate questions, and communicate financial matters clearly to the board. Effective Treasurers combine financial oversight with good governance, ensuring that financial considerations are integrated into the organisation's planning and decision-making.

The Treasurer works alongside fellow trustees as part of the governing body and should not be viewed as solely responsible for the organisation's finances. Ultimate responsibility for financial stewardship rests with the board as a whole.

Further resources and links

Highland TSI – Role of the treasurer

Third Sector Dumfries & Galloway - Treasurer role description

DIY Committee Guide – What is the role of the treasurer?

Honorary Treasurers Forum – The treasurer’s role

ICAEW – The charity treasurer

For further free, well-informed information, find your local Third Sector Interface (TSI) at the directory page here