About Pingala

Pingala Co-operative has a vision of a fairer energy system, where communities are empowered to own and operate their own energy systems.

Pingala Co-operative’s objective is to develop, deliver and operate local renewable energy or energy efficiency projects in a way which shares the benefits as widely as possible within the community.

Co-operatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity.

Job Objective

The Treasurer is a key member of the Pingala Co-Operative and its Board of Directors (the “Board”) and is primarily responsible for the financial management and integrity of the organisation.

The Treasurer of the Pingala Co-operative Board can be a non-member director, so long as the Board has a majority of member Directors. This appointment will be until the next AGM of the Co-Operative, usually held in October, when the individual appointed will be able to stand for election to the Board for a three year term.

The Treasurer will work closely with the Board, the Pingala Association Treasurer and Pingala members to safeguard the organisation's finances.

Key Responsibilities are outlined below. Major deliverables for 2024 are:

1. Develop and document financial policies and procedures for Pingala Co-Operative.

2. Manage the Co-Operative's bank accounts and arrange an audit.

3. Review internal financial control processes and reporting methods to ensure transparency and accuracy.

4. Prepare an annual budget and report variance quarterly to the Board.

5. Conduct a review of Pingala’s Business Plan for consideration by the Board.

This is a volunteer position, and while no remuneration is offered, it provides an invaluable chance to contribute to an organisation making a difference in the solar energy sector.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative

• Undertake induction and training procedures
• Maintain the Co-Operative’s asset register and member register
• Ensure the Co-Operative’s financial records are adequate, protected, backed up and accessible

Governance

• Develop financial policies for the Co-Operative and ensure financial procedures are documented and followed
• Advise the Board on matters of finance
• Consider, debate, and vote on issues before the Board on basis of the best interests of Pingala only
• Avoid any improper use of your position in Pingala, or information acquired by virtue of your position, to gain any material advantage for yourself, or for any other person, or to the detriment of Pingala
• If you have any conflict of interest in any matter before the Board, or believe perception of such a conflict might arise, inform the Board immediately and follow the Board’s rulings

Planning

• Conduct a review of the Business Plan for consideration by the Board

Finance

• Ensure clear demarcation of accounts and responsibilities with the Pingala Association Treasurer
• Advise the Board on financial strategy
• Review internal financial control processes and reporting methods to ensure transparency and accuracy. Ensure appropriate safeguards against fraud are in place
• Arrange an audit from time to time and report to Board

Budgets

• Prepare annual budget and present to the Board.
• Monitor budget and suggest adjustments as necessary
• Present quarterly variance reports to the Board

Banking

• Manage the Co-Operative's bank accounts
• Oversee investment portfolio, in line with the Board's policies and legal requirements
• Oversee collection and receipt of money due to the Co-Operative and make payments authorised by the Board

Compliance

• Ensure all necessary insurance & policies are in place
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws & regulations for financial & tax reporting
• Prepare necessary financial reporting

Meetings

• Attend Board meetings via Zoom. If unavoidable, notify in advance of any absence
• Report to the Board quarterly on the organisation's financial situation and variances from approved budget
• With the Secretary, place any necessary financial items on the Board agenda
• Report to the AGM on the financial situation of the organisation
• Contribute to discussion and resolution of issues

Experience, Skills and Knowledge

• Previous experience in a Treasurer role or role involving financial management, highly desirable.
• Experience using financial software, particularly Xero, advantageous
• Experience in social enterprise sector or a co-operative organisation, advantageous
• Strong financial and accounting skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Knowledge of the solar industry is a plus

Personal Traits

• High level of integrity, strong sense of ethics, and ability to work as part of a team
• Commitment to the organisation's mission and strategic directions

Please send us your CV and a cover letter telling us what makes you a good candidate for the role.