BOARD TREASURER JOB DESCRIPTION

Review Board Treasurer job descriptions covering budgeting, tax compliance, financial reporting, and governance responsibilities in the nonprofit sector.

Board Treasurer Job Description Template

1. About the Role

Nonprofits answer to funders, regulators, and the communities they serve. When no one owns the financial layer of that accountability, donor funds go untracked, federal and state filings lapse, and the board makes strategy decisions without reliable numbers beneath them. The Board Treasurer exists to prevent exactly that. Sitting within the board's officer structure, this role owns fund accounting oversight, audit coordination, and the cash flow systems that keep a tax-exempt organization solvent and credible with grantmakers and the IRS alike.

2. Position Summary

As the Board Treasurer, you are accountable for the full financial integrity of the organization, from maintaining GAAP-compliant records and filing required tax documents to advising the board on fiscal policy and the financial implications of strategic decisions. You operate as a board officer alongside the executive director and Finance Committee, serving as the primary financial voice in governance meetings and the point of accountability for funder compliance and annual audit completion.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Serving as Board Treasurer in the nonprofit sector develops the specific combination of fund accounting knowledge, governance experience, and regulatory fluency - including IRS Form 990 preparation and Charity Commission-level reporting - that distinguishes a finance professional as a credible nonprofit board leader.

Business Impact: The organization's ability to retain donor funding, maintain tax-exempt status, and pass independent audits depends directly on the accuracy and timeliness of the financial systems this role designs and upholds.

Growth Opportunity: Experience chairing a Finance Committee and advising an executive director on strategic financial planning positions a treasurer for broader nonprofit governance roles, including board chair candidacy or CFO-level advisory appointments at larger organizations.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Monitor the annual budget against actual revenues and expenses, reporting material variances to the board on a monthly and quarterly basis.
  • Oversee all financial transactions, bank accounts, and fund deposits to ensure timely and accurate disbursement in accordance with board policy.
  • Coordinate the annual independent audit by contracting with a CPA and ensuring all records and filings meet regulatory standards.
  • Ensure federal, state, and local financial reports are filed on time, including tax-exempt status documentation and funder-required financial statements.
  • Design and maintain bookkeeping and accounting systems that support accurate financial reporting and appropriate internal controls.
  • Chair the Finance Committee, facilitate financial policy development, and translate financial data into clear guidance for the full board.
  • Advise the executive director on cash flow management, strategic financial planning, and the fiscal implications of organizational decisions.
  • Review outcomes and performance metrics regularly to evaluate organizational impact and inform board-level decision-making.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
  • 5 or more years of financial management experience, with demonstrated leadership in budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
  • Knowledge of fund accounting systems, GAAP, and internal controls applicable to nonprofit organizations.
  • Experience preparing or overseeing financial statements, regulatory filings, and annual audits in a tax-exempt entity context.
  • Ability to analyze and present financial data clearly to board members and non-finance stakeholders.
  • Understanding of nonprofit board governance structures, officer responsibilities, and fiduciary duties of trusteeship.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage filing deadlines, reimbursement workflows, and multi-project priorities concurrently.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • CPA certification or a professional accounting designation, reflecting formal credentialing in financial reporting and audit standards.
  • Prior board service or Finance Committee membership, with direct experience in nonprofit governance and executive oversight.
  • Familiarity with fundraising principles and donor compliance requirements, including grant reporting and restricted fund management.
  • Experience advising senior leadership on strategic financial planning, reserves policy, or organizational solvency frameworks.

7. Success Metrics and Environment

  • Annual audit completion rate, measured by clean or qualified opinion delivery on schedule.
  • Budget variance percentage, tracking monthly deviation of actual spend from approved line items.
  • Regulatory filing on-time rate, covering all federal, state, and local submissions in the fiscal year.
  • Cash reserve ratio relative to the board-approved reserves policy threshold.
  • Board financial report delivery, measured by percentage of meetings where treasurer reports are submitted on time.
  • Typical tools: Nonprofit accounting platforms (commonly QuickBooks Nonprofit or similar); board management and document platforms for meeting materials.

8. Compensation and Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: Board Treasurer is typically a volunteer officer role; stipends range from $0 to $5,000 annually depending on organization size.
  • Bonus: Not applicable for volunteer board positions.
  • Equity: Not applicable.
  • Health Benefits: Not provided for volunteer board roles; full-time staff equivalents vary by organization.
  • PTO: Not applicable for board officer roles.
  • Common Perks: Professional development support, conference reimbursement, and network access within the nonprofit and philanthropic community.


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO and Legal

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for board service without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Candidates requiring reasonable accommodations during the selection process are encouraged to make that need known. For compensated staff roles associated with this function, employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check. All individuals must be authorized to work in the United States.

Board Treasurer Job Description Example

1. Board Treasurer (Nonprofit Financial Oversight)

The Board Treasurer owns the full cycle of financial management for the organization, from preparing and monitoring the annual budget to contracting with an independent CPA for audits and overseeing all financial transactions. Working closely with the executive director and board of directors, the Treasurer ensures regulatory compliance across federal, state, and local reporting while measuring organizational performance and effectiveness to support strategic planning.


Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in the preparation of and monitor the annual budget to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
  • Ensure the board's financial policies are followed and report to the board of directors and general membership on financial matters.
  • Prepare required financial reporting forms and maintain all bank accounts and oversee all financial transactions.
  • Ensure all funds are properly deposited and disbursed promptly.
  • Render monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to the board of directors.
  • Ensure all federal, state, and local financial reports are filed on a timely basis.
  • Oversee the design and implementation of an appropriate bookkeeping and accounting system.
  • Contract with an independent CPA to conduct an annual audit and sign fiscal forms as necessary.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive director for the development and implementation of the strategic plan.
  • Review outcomes and metrics for evaluating impact and measure performance and effectiveness regularly.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Finance and Accounting, with CPA preferred.
  • Demonstrated breadth and depth of financial management and leadership experience.
  • Extensive professional experience with significant executive leadership accomplishments in business, government, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sector.
  • Knowledge of fund accounting systems, internal controls, and financial planning principles.
  • Skilled in analyzing and clearly presenting financial statements and regulatory reporting requirements.
  • Ability to develop methods for maintaining positive cash flow and ensuring organizational financial health.
  • Commitment to and understanding of beneficiaries, preferably based on direct experience.

2. Board Treasurer (Nonprofit Governance and Compliance)

Embedded within the board of directors, the Board Treasurer evaluates the financial health of the organization by tracking receipts and spending, leading annual audits, and ensuring financial systems and record-keeping meet funder and statutory requirements. Working closely with board committees and leadership, the Treasurer contributes to policy development, strategic planning, and board recruitment to strengthen organizational integrity and mission alignment.


Core Functions

  • Evaluate the financial health of the organization by working with bookkeepers to track receipts and spending.
  • Conduct annual audits of financials and lead financial planning and budgeting processes.
  • Ensure appropriate financial systems, controls, and record-keeping meet funder and statutory requirements.
  • Prepare financial reports and legal filings and ensure organizational compliance with legal requirements.
  • Attend board meetings regularly, review agendas and supporting documentation, and participate actively.
  • Chair or participate in committees based on expertise and contribute to policy and strategic plan development.
  • Identify and recruit new board members based on organizational needs and maintain confidentiality on internal affairs.


Qualifications and Experience

  • Professional experience in business, law, government, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sector.
  • Experience in finance, tax, and accounting principles, with an understanding of nonprofit board responsibilities.
  • Experience in or affinity with fundraising and knowledge of the relevant landscape of those served.
  • Strong diplomatic and interpersonal skills with personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and passion for the mission.
  • Sufficient time availability for board duties and a commitment to anti-racism and social justice values.

3. Board Treasurer (Mental Health Charity)

Many Minds is a small Bristol based mental health charity that facilitate creative spaces and make performance with people managing their mental health. We are looking for a Treasurer to join our dynamic Board in an exciting phase of growth.


Reporting to the board of directors, the Board Treasurer maintains an overview of the organization's financial viability, oversees annual accounts to meet Charity Commission standards, and advises on the financial implications of strategic plans. Partnering with paid staff, volunteers, and the director, the Treasurer ensures compliance with finance and tax legislation while contributing to fundraising strategy and keeping the board informed of its financial duties.


Primary Duties

  • Maintain an overview of the organization's affairs to ensure financial viability and that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.
  • Support the director in preparing accounts, budgets, financial statements, and reports needed by funders.
  • Prepare and present financial reports to the board and oversee annual accounts to meet Charity Commission standards.
  • Ensure financial resources meet present and future needs and that an appropriate reserves policy is in place.
  • Advise on the financial implications of the organization's strategic plans and contribute to the fundraising strategy.
  • Liaise with paid staff and volunteers on financial matters and keep the board informed of its financial duties.
  • Ensure compliance with finance, tax, and related legislation and that no conflict exists between investments and the charity's aims.


Skills and Qualifications

  • A strong financial background, preferably with an accountancy qualification.
  • A commitment to the organization's cause and an understanding of mental health and its impact.
  • Strategic vision with good, independent judgment and an ability to think creatively.
  • An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
  • Ability to work effectively as a team member and a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.

4. Board Treasurer (Community Nonprofit Finance)

Sitting at the intersection of financial management and board governance, the Board Treasurer oversees the organization's financial affairs, facilitates annual budget preparation, and translates financial concepts for board members to support sound decision-making. Operating across finance, compliance, and policy functions, the Treasurer ensures accurate reporting, timely tax filings, and that financial policies and procedures are reviewed and upheld by the board.


Duties

  • Oversee the management of the financial affairs of the organization and facilitate the preparation of an annual budget.
  • Monitor and compare actual revenues and expenses against the budget on a regular basis.
  • Translate financial concepts and information for board members as needed to support decision-making.
  • Ensure accurate and complete financial reporting, proper maintenance of financial records, and timely tax return filing.
  • Keep a calendar of filing requirements and deadlines with clear assignments to ensure all are met on time.
  • Ensure development and board review of financial policies and procedures.


Experience and Qualifications

  • A commitment to and understanding of the organization's chapters, volunteers, members, and mission.
  • Professional accounting designation preferred, with experience in financial management and reporting practices.
  • Proficient in QuickBooks and able to provide the level of financial information needed at a board level.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills with a natural affinity for public speaking and cultivating relationships.
  • Strong organizational skills with personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and passion for holistic living and community building.

5. Board Treasurer (Finance Committee Leadership)

A key member of the board of directors, the Board Treasurer oversees financial affairs including investing funds in line with applicable laws and by-laws, chairs the Finance Committee, and develops cash flow management systems to ensure organizational solvency. Collaborating across executive leadership and the full board, the Treasurer renders accounts of all transactions, reviews financial results, and provides guidance that supports informed governance and long-term fiscal health.


Functions

  • Oversee the management of financial affairs, including investing funds consistent with applicable laws and by-laws.
  • Maintain knowledge of who has access to organizational funds and any outstanding bills or debts owed.
  • Oversee and maintain systems for ensuring organizational solvency, including budget management and financial policy development.
  • Render accounts of all transactions and the financial condition of the corporation to the president and board of directors as required.
  • Serve as chair of the Finance Committee and work with executive leadership to ensure timely financial reporting to the board.
  • Develop cash flow management and reporting systems and oversee financial planning and fiscal policy advising.
  • Review financial results and guide the full board.


Education and Experience

  • CPA certification or similar qualification required.
  • Thorough understanding of financial accounting for nonprofit organizations, including GAAP, GASS, audits, portfolio management, investments, and philanthropy.
  • Experience as a board member with executive oversight, nonprofit governance, and public speaking preferred.
  • Commitment to devoting the necessary time to perform treasurer duties and chair the Finance Committee.
  • Familiarity and access to the local Japanese American community, culture, and civic leaders.

6. Board Treasurer (Volunteer Nonprofit Finance)

Sound financial stewardship and legal compliance for the organization depend on the Board Treasurer, who holds an officer position on the board, collaborates with members to build and manage the annual budget, and partners with co-chairs to deliver quarterly assessments of financial and legal health. Based within a volunteer board structure, the Treasurer files required tax documents, oversees fund tracking aligned with donor intentions, and leads the transition of banking operations to meet the organization's evolving operational needs.


Accountabilities

  • Hold an officer position on the board and collaborate with board members to create and manage an annual budget.
  • Partner with board co-chairs to deliver quarterly assessments of financial and legal health to the board.
  • Manage and fulfill reimbursement requests in a timely and organized manner.
  • File taxes and other legally required documents to state and federal authorities.
  • Ensure the organization tracks and spends funds in line with industry standards and donor intentions.
  • Research and transition the bank account to a full-service financial institution that meets operational needs.


Background and Experience

  • Ability to think strategically and long-term about organizational finances, needs, and best practices.
  • Experience developing and managing budgets, with direct experience in nonprofit budgets as a plus.
  • Basic cash management and bookkeeping skills to ensure financial integrity.
  • Demonstrated ability to execute and oversee multiple projects in a timely manner.
  • Strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion with impeccable organizational skills and creativity in developing infrastructure.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.

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