A Council appointed Trustee position has become available on the Whangārei Art Trust (WAT) Board, offering a rewarding opportunity for an individual passionate about transforming and enriching people's lives through the experience of art and nature. This position as a trustee has a financial focus.

The Trust provides governance over the following facilities: Whangārei Art Museum, Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery. These facilities combine to create an art precinct that operates at an international standard. This landmark project in Whangārei is the realisation of a community vision more than 25 years in the making.

The Whangārei Art Trust's actions and direction are determined by the Trust Deed, which details the objectives of the Trust. Whangārei Art Trust is a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO). Although the WAT is referred to as a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO), it is entirely independent in terms of operation and governance.

This independence is essential to protect the Whangārei Art Trust's charitable status. It ensures the museum retains eligibility for charitable funding, and that it remains the appropriate organisation to receive artworks from benefactors who wish to make bequests to an organisation that operates in the interests of the greater community.

The Whangārei Art Trust is the responsibility of a Trust Board comprised of no less than six (6) Trustees and no more than seven (7); There are two (2) Community appointments made by the Whangārei District Council, one (1) hapū representative appointed by the Whangārei District Council, one (1) elected member from the council and a minimum of two (2) and maximum of three (3) appointed by Trustees of the Trust.

Finance lead responsibilities

• Monitor the financial position of the Trust and provide oversight and advice to the board of trustees on its state of financial health, in line with best practice, and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements.
• Oversee and scrutinise budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements and provide advice on these and the financial implications of the charity's strategy and plans to the board of trustees
• In partnership with fellow board trustees, ensure sound financial management of WAT ensuring proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly invested and economically spent; and that we have sound reserves and other finance and fundraising policies.
• Develop and maintain positive and productive governance relationships with the Whangārei District Council elected members, the General Manager Community Services and the Directors of both Hundertwasser Art Centre and the Whangārei Art Museum.

Finance Trustee Person Specification

• Current or previous experience as a qualified accountant (CCAB recognised qualification)
• Previous experience as a Trustee, Board Member, or in an organisation governance role
• Ability to navigate contentious discussions with calmness and confidence in an inclusive, outcome focused way.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship
• Some understanding of charity finance and the fundraising landscape
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong team player, who respects and values the views of others
• Commitment to Equity, Diversity & inclusion
• Sound independent judgement, an ability to analyse information and communicate this in clear, accessible ways to those without financial backgrounds.
• An understanding and commitment to WATs vision, mission, and values
• Knowledge of the historic mana whenua of the district

Statutory duties of all WAT Trustees

• To ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these
• To contribute actively to the Board in giving clear strategic direction
• To ensure WAT complies with its governing document; pursuing its objectives as stated in its governing document
• To evaluate organisational performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure that the charity is financially stable
• To protect and manage the assets of the organisation, ensuring the proper investment of the charity's funds
• To ensure that the charity's governance is beyond reproach
• Willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to meet the responsibilities of the post.

All Trustee positions are voluntary. This vacant position is for a Council-appointed member, representing the community. Our Trustees must be available to attend monthly Trust meetings of approximately 3 hours in duration, with an additional 2 hours per week for administrative duties. Meetings are usually held on a Monday afternoon each month.