Treasurer

PLANET WATCH

Treasurer

Accountable to: Board of Directors | Term: 3 years, renewable once | Elected by the Board

Purpose of the Role

The Treasurer is responsible for the financial oversight of Planet Watch, ensuring the organization's funds are managed responsibly, transparently, and in compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The Treasurer works closely with the Executive Director and any contracted bookkeeper or accountant to maintain Planet Watch's financial health and credibility with funders.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Oversight

• Monitor Planet Watch's financial position — reviewing income, expenses, and cash flow against budget on a regular basis
• Present financial reports at each board meeting, including a summary of revenues, expenditures, and any variances from the approved budget
• Ensure financial records are accurate, up-to-date, and maintained in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for non-profits
• Oversee the annual budgeting process in partnership with the ED, and present the proposed annual budget to the board for approval
• Ensure year-end financial statements are prepared and reviewed or audited as required by funders or CRA

Compliance & Risk

• Ensure all CRA filing obligations are met on time — including T3010 (Registered Charity Information Return) once charitable status is granted
• Monitor compliance with all grant reporting requirements related to financial accountability
• Ensure appropriate financial controls are in place — including signing authority, expense approval processes, and segregation of duties
• Identify and flag financial risks to the board in a timely manner

Banking & Signing Authority

• Serve as a signing officer on Planet Watch's organizational bank account
• Review and authorize financial transactions above the ED's approved signing threshold
• Oversee the selection and relationship with Planet Watch's banking institution and any contracted financial service providers

Qualifications & Attributes

• Background in finance, accounting, bookkeeping, or financial management — professional designation (CPA) is an asset but not required
• Experience managing or overseeing finances in a non-profit, small business, or community organization context
• Familiarity with Canadian non-profit financial reporting requirements and CRA charity obligations
• High attention to detail and comfort working with financial data and reporting tools
• Integrity, transparency, and sound judgment in financial matters
• Available for a minimum of 3–5 hours per month including board meetings, financial review, and ED check-ins

Works Closely With

Executive Director, Board Chair, contracted bookkeeper or accountant, grant officers