Board Director and Treasurer, New Harvest Canada

*If you are interested in this this position, please apply by February 28, 2025.

New Harvest is a global non-profit organization established in the United States (since 2004), Canada (since 2020), and the Netherlands (since 2020).

As New Harvest has expanded internationally and successfully secured government funding, our organizational requirements have evolved.

We are actively seeking a mission-driven, CPA to join our Canadian Board who will provide essential advice, guidance, and direction to our charity. As a volunteer member of our Board, this individual will be instrumental in shaping the strategic direction and governance of New Harvest.

Ideally, these Treasurers will operate independently on Canadian matters while also collaborating, as necessary, on international issues with our Dutch and US Board Treasurers.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the organization in line with best practices and in accordance with the governing documents and legal requirements.

The treasurer will ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, and are appropriate for the charity.

Despite the additional responsibility the treasurer has in overseeing the financial matters of the charity, all directors continue to be jointly and severally responsible, and therefore liable, for the administration of the charity. Directors are expected to act in good faith and will be protected by Directors & Officers insurance.

To this end, the Treasurer will report on the current financial position of the charity at each Board meeting (these are currently quarterly) and this will be recorded in the minutes. Reporting will include an update on funds received and spent since the last report. If the Treasurer is unable to attend a committee meeting, a written report should be sent to the board at least one or two days before the meeting. All financial decisions taken will be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management

• Oversee the financial operations of the organization, including budgeting, financial reporting, and cash management.
• Monitor financial trends and forecasts, particularly in philanthropy and government grants to ensure the organization remains financially stable and sustainable.
• Ensure proper allocation and usage of financial resources in alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all charity regulations and standards.
• Manage financial risks by implementing sound financial practices and internal controls.

Financial Oversight

• Work closely with the ED and COO to provide oversight, support, and guidance on financial decisions.
• Facilitate the preparation and presentation of financial statements and reports for board meetings.
• Lead discussions with external auditors and manage the audit process, ensuring transparency and addressing any findings or recommendations.

Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with the board and senior management in long-term financial planning to align with the organization’s mission and strategy.
• Participate actively in fundraising efforts to secure the resources necessary for the organization's objectives.

Liaison with staff responsible for the financial management of the charity

An important first step for a Treasurer is to liaise with staff responsible for the financial management of the charity. In the case of New Harvest Canada, this will be the Executive Director, COO, and Accounting and Tax Compliance Manager.

This is a volunteer role, and meetings are fully remote.

Qualifications:

• Fluent in English
• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Previous experience serving on a non-profit board of directors or advisory committee is highly desirable.
• Previous experience overseeing/managing government grants is highly desirable.
• Expertise in areas such as accounting, business operations, bank operations is an asset
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and objectives of the organization, and willingness to dedicate time and effort to fulfill board responsibilities.
• Familiarity with the charity sector, governance best practices, and relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.