Board Treasurer - Adult Literacy Organization

Position Overview

The Treasurer is a voting member of the Board of Directors and serves as the Board's lead fiduciary officer. The Treasurer ensures that Ethos Literacy maintains sound financial practices, provides accurate and timely financial reporting, and operates within an approved budget. The Treasurer works closely with the Executive Director to oversee the organization's financial health.

This is an uncompensated volunteer position covered by Directors & Officers insurance.

Term

One year, with consecutive terms allowed. Officers are elected at the June board meeting.

Reports To

Board of Directors; works in partnership with the Executive Director and Board President.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Oversight & Reporting

• Review and present monthly financial statements to the Board
• Ensure monthly bank reconciliations are completed and reviewed
• Monitor cash flow and alert the Board to any concerns
• Ensure financial records are maintained accurately and in accordance with nonprofit accounting standards

Budget & Planning

• Work with the Executive Director to develop the annual budget
• Present the budget to the Board for approval
• Monitor actual performance against budget throughout the year
• Flag significant variances and recommend corrective action

Compliance & Controls

• Ensure timely filing of the annual Form 990 and state registrations
• Present the federal tax return to the Board for approval
• Oversee internal financial controls and recommend improvements
• Ensure compliance with grant reporting requirements as applicable
• Review and update financial policies as needed

Audit & External Relationships

• Coordinate with external bookkeeper and/or accountant
• As the organization grows, oversee the annual audit or review process
• Serve as Board liaison to any finance or audit committee

Board Participation

• Attend monthly Board meetings (mostly virtual)
• Serve on the Executive Committee
• Participate in strategic planning and organizational development
• Act as an ambassador for Ethos Literacy

Time Commitment

• Monthly board meeting (1.5 hours)
• Financial review and preparation (2-4 hours/month)
• Ad hoc communication with ED and bookkeeper
• Committee work as needed

Qualifications

Required

• Commitment to Ethos Literacy's mission
• Financial literacy and comfort reading financial statements
• Integrity and sound judgment
• Ability to commit to at least one full term

Strongly Preferred

• Professional background in accounting, finance, or business management
• CPA, CFA, or equivalent credential
• Experience with nonprofit financial management
• Familiarity with Form 990 and nonprofit compliance requirements

Helpful But Not Required

• Experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting software
• Prior board or treasurer experience
• Grant financial management experience

What Success Looks Like

A successful Treasurer ensures the Board has clear, accurate, and timely financial information to make informed decisions. They translate financial complexity into plain language, ask good questions, maintain appropriate controls, and help the organization plan for long-term sustainability—while making space for mission-driven risk-taking.

Financial Commitment

Like all Board members, the Treasurer is expected to make a personally meaningful annual donation to Ethos Literacy.