VOLUNTEER TRUSTEE Treasurer
job description

SUMMARY

The Matthew of Bristol is a replica of the ship that sailed to North America in 1497 and began the documented European voyages of exploration. The current Matthew was built to recreate this voyage and was welcomed on arrival in Canada by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Matthew of Bristol Trust was created to preserve the modern Matthew as a sea-going vessel and promote the advancement of education in local and national history and heritage associated with the ship – celebrating the explorer John Cabot and the exploration and settlement of the New World, including Newfoundland and Labrador.

As a major attraction, the Matthew of Bristol brings significant economic benefit to the Harbourside and the wider Bristol tourist economy.

THE ROLE

‍We are looking for a qualified accountant to oversee the Trust’s financial affairs. This will include managing the routine financial activities of the Trust, cash position, VAT returns and annual financial accounts.

‍The Treasurer will oversee budgets, routine financial management and financial planning. The role will also involve explaining financial affairs to non-financial members of the Trustee board.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Financial management

  • Manage bank accounts and compliance with bank requirements.

  • Making deposits and processing payments using online banking.

  • Operate our financial systems based on QuickBooks and the accounting aspects of our ticketing system.

  • Ensure satisfactory financial controls are operating.

Reporting and compliance

  • Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns.

  • Prepare and present financial reports, such as budgets, management and annual accounts, and cash flow forecasts to the Board.

  • Ensure compliance with charity and corporate financial requirements.

  • Liaise with auditors and independent examiners for the annual accounts.

Budgeting and planning

  • Help prepare and oversee the annual budget.

  • Advise the board on the financial viability of new plans and proposals.

Financial advice and oversight

  • Keep the Board informed about the organisation's financial position.

  • Provide guidance on financial risks and opportunities. 

Skills and qualifications

  • Qualified accountant.

  • Be willing to take a hands-on role in our accounting systems and processes.

  • Proficient with financial accounting software (we use QuickBooks), Excel spreadsheets, VAT and GiftAid return software.

  • Experience in analysing and interpreting financial data, identifying opportunities and assessment of risks

  • Possess a high degree of personal integrity.

  • Demonstrate an ability to work flexibly, sometimes with specific time commitments for tasks like reporting.

  • Ability to be a clear communicator, able to explain financial information to non-financial stakeholders. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET FROM THE ROLE

  • Board-level experience – experience of contributing to strategic decisions and governance, which can be valuable for future leadership or board roles.

  • A sense of purpose – you'll directly contribute to preserving Bristol's maritime heritage and supporting education.

  • Networking – connections with Bristol businesses, community organisations, charities, funders and tourism/heritage organisations.

  • Profile and credibility – being a Trustee gives you a recognised position of responsibility that can strengthen your CV.

Download the job spec

GET INVOLVED!

If you would like to contribute your skills and enthusiasm to help write the next chapter of The Matthew’s story, we’d love to hear from you!

Please email your letter of interest and CV to The Matthew office at: info@matthew.co.uk

You’ll be helping to preserve the story and legacy of a ship that helped shape the course of exploration.