WIRE (originally known as Women’s Information and Referral Exchange Inc.) delivers services responding to the needs of women, non-binary and gender diverse people.

Job description

WIRE is seeking applications for a Board Director with qualifications and expertise in accountancy and financial management to take on the role of Deputy Treasurer. The Deputy Treasurer, together with the Treasurer, will have an important part to play in ensuring that WIRE maintains good financial governance and engages in best practice.

This is a great opportunity for someone who would like to play a pivotal role in the direction of the organisation, work with an amazing and knowledgeable crew, all while making a positive impact on the wellbeing of women, non-binary and gender diverse people.

About WIRE

We are a proud intersectional feminist organisation, and we are committed to creating a fair society for all women, gender diverse, and non-binary people. We see ourselves as initiators of change. We have been actively involved in addressing systemic barriers to gender equity for over 40 years.

We take a proactive stance on issues related to gender inequity which often leads us to areas less explored and often overlooked. For us, gender equity is about meeting individuals where they are and allocating resources and opportunities as needed to create equal outcomes for all members of our society.

For further information about WIRE, including programs, strategic plan and annual reports, see our website: www.wire.org.au.

WIRE’s principles underpin how we work as a team, the partnerships we form, and the way we research, design and deliver our programs. Our principles are:

• Human rights and social justice
• Courage and leadership
• Intersectional feminism
• Person-centred and responsive
• Evidence and improvement
• Sustainable and interdependent change
• Transparent and accountable
• Respectful collaboration and co-design
• Curiosity and growth

About the Board

Our Board is collaborative and dynamic, with a strong, collective understanding of the strategic direction of WIRE. Board members have a range of skills, experiences, and knowledge, supporting informed decision making.

The role of the Board is to ensure that WIRE carries out its vision and achieves its strategic objectives practically, sustainably, ethically and in accordance with its constitution, relevant laws, regulations, and good governance practice.

The Board meets approximately six times per year, with a flexible mix of face-to-face and online meetings outside business hours. Board roles are voluntary positions with expenses reimbursed.

The Board and its committees’ responsibilities include:

• Setting the strategic direction and monitoring the overall performance outcomes and workplace culture.
• Overseeing financial statements (balance sheets and Profit & Loss) annual audits, as well as asset and risk management.
• Appointing and monitoring the performance of the CEO.
• Endorsing the annual report.
• Operating in accordance with the financial, social and ethical objectives as set out in WIRE’s governance manual and policies.
• Ensuring that WIRE’s internal and external practices including advocacy and campaigns are aligned with intersectional feminist priorities and objectives as set out in WIRE’s strategic plan.
• Identifying and advising on sector trends, risks and opportunities.
• Contribute to the preparation of Board papers and presentations, as required.
• Participating in relevant sub-committees and working groups.

About the role

WIRE is seeking an individual with relevant qualifications and expertise in accountancy and/or financial management. CPA / CA qualifications preferred but not essential. Previous experience in a similar role on a not-for-profit board is welcomed but not essential.

This role will require membership of the Finance Audit and Risk Committee (FAR). We will appoint the person as Deputy Treasurer to support WIRE’s existing Treasurer. The Deputy Treasurer role is a voluntary Board position that assists with the financial governance of WIRE optimising its performance, and ensuring compliance with financial, legal and regulatory requirements.

The FAR offers guidance to the CEO in ensuring good fiscal planning and provides advice and recommendations to the Board to facilitate decision making for strategic financial and risk priorities.

All WIRE Directors have a demonstrated interest in the outcomes of WIRE's work for women, non-binary and gender diverse people.

All women, non-binary and gender diverse people with skills and/or lived experience and skills relevant to the role with a passion and /or interest in WIRE’s work are encouraged to apply.

Board members are elected for an initial period of three years.

Please contact May Zhong, Treasurer on 0419 366 088 for any questions about the role.