OFC seeks new Treasurer (Director)

The Oxford Farming Conference is seeking an experienced Treasurer to join the Board of Directors, due to the retirement of the current holder. 

The Treasurer plays a key role in ensuring the Conference maintains strong financial governance and long-term sustainability.  

As a Director of the organisation, the Treasurer works closely with fellow Board members and our professional service providers to oversee financial performance, monitor risk and support strategic decision-making.

This is a voluntary appointment, supported by an annual honorarium of £5,000, together with reimbursement of reasonable expenses. The Board comprises nine voluntary Directors on a revolving 3-year tenure and a Treasurer Director with no fixed term.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a Director of the Oxford Farming Conference and contribute to the overall strategic leadership of the organisation.
• Present on financial performance to the Board at its monthly meetings, highlighting financial performance, forecasts, key risks and opportunities.
• Review management accounts, budgets, cash flow forecasts and year-end financial statements including investments held with CCLA.
• Work with the Board and professional advisers to develop and monitor the annual budget.
• Ensure appropriate financial controls, governance and risk management arrangements are maintained.
• Liaise with external accountants, auditors and other financial advisers as required.
• Support the Board in making informed financial decisions relating to the Conference and its long-term strategy.

Working with Professional Service Providers

The Treasurer works alongside a number of professional organisations responsible for delivering key aspects of the Conference, including:

• Event management
•  Secretariat services – which includes day-to-day book keeping
• Marketing and communications
• Partnership and sponsorship promotion

The Treasurer provides financial oversight of these arrangements and supports the Board in ensuring value for money and effective financial management.

Time Commitment

The role typically involves:

• Attendance at monthly Board meetings (approximately one meeting per month).
• Preparation and presentation of a Treasurer’s financial report for each meeting.
• Attendance at the annual Oxford Farming Conference in January each year.
• Additional time as required for budget preparation, year-end reporting and discussions with advisers and service providers.

The expected commitment is approximately 2-3 days per month, with a higher commitment during budget setting and the lead-up to the annual Conference.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

Essential Skills

• A recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) or comparable financial expertise.
• Experience of financial governance, budgeting and financial reporting. 
• The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
• Strategic thinking and sound commercial judgement.
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute as an active Board member.

Desirable Skills

• Previous experience as a Treasurer, Non-Executive Director or Trustee.
• Experience within the agricultural, food, rural or events sectors.
• Knowledge of charity or not-for-profit governance.
• Regular attendance at the Oxford Farming Conference

Remuneration

This is a voluntary Board appointment. The Treasurer receives:

• An annual honorarium of £5,000.
• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out the role.

About OFC and Why Join Us?

The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC), which is a charity, is one of the UK’s leading independent agricultural conferences, bringing together leaders from farming, food, policy, science and industry to discuss the future of agriculture. The Conference is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors who provide strategic leadership and oversee the delivery of the annual event.

This is an opportunity to help shape the event and support the charitable objectives, working alongside a dynamic Board and experienced delivery partners to ensure the continued success and financial sustainability of the Oxford Farming Conference.

Timeframe

The application window will close on the 13^th September with shortlisted candidates invited for interview in October.

It is proposed that the successful candidate joins the December Board meeting to meet Directors.  You will be expected to attend the 2027 conference for which tickets and accommodation will be provided.

The current treasurer will formally step down after the 2027 conference with a transitional period and process to be agreed.

How to apply and questions

If you have any questions, please contact secretariat@ofc.org.uk who will direct your question to the right person

To apply, please forward a CV and a brief covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your interest in, and suitability for the role to secretariat@ofc.org.uk