Brief Description:

Volunteer Opportunity - Firefighters without Borders
Board of Directors, Director and Board Treasurer

Are you a passionate projects manager with an interest in Fire and Emergency Services? Firefighters Without Borders is looking for a savvy leader to join our volunteer Board of Directors to head up our treasury function.

Firefighters Without Borders is a not-for profit registered Charity providing training and support to fire departments in Canada’s remote and northern communities and around the world. We are currently seeking a professional with experience in finance and accounting to join our Volunteer Board of Directors.
Vision
A world where first responders are empowered to save lives.

Mission

Our mission is “to protect life, property & the environment in communities around the world by providing professional training, education, resources and support.”

We believe that preventing fire from happening in the first place is a proactive approach for community safety. Some fire departments do not have the resources to deal effectively with any emergency, so a strong public education and fire prevention program is a key program delivered by Firefighters Without Borders. Programs relating to technical rescue and vehicle extrication are also a key component of our program delivery. Programs are delivered by fire personnel who understand that skills transferability leads to strong relationships and confidence for fire departments who are struggling to work safely in varied and sometimes desperate conditions.
To learn more about Firefighters Without Borders, please visit:
http://firefighterswithoutborders.org
Commitments:
Two-year term, with the possibility of a renewal (subject to Board and Member approval).
Willingness to devote an average of 10 hours per month above and beyond monthly Board meetings.
Willingness to serve as Chair of the Board Finance Committee.
Willingness to participate on other Board Committees.

Board Member Responsibilities:
A Director is fully informed on organizational matters and participates in the Board’s deliberations and decisions in matters of policy, finance, risk management and advocacy. He/she serves in a volunteer capacity without remuneration.
The Director shall be required to:
Understand the purpose, policies and programs of the organization and actively commit to participate in the affairs of the organization.
Evaluate and approve, as appropriate, policy and other recommendations made by other Directors on the Board and its committees.
Attend all board meetings and be prepared to engage in meaningful debate, including reviewing the agenda and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings.
Ensure compliance with Board-approved policies.
Be informed of and strive to meet all applicable legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
Participate in the development of Firefighter Without Borders’ strategy, organizational plan and annual reviews.
Approve the annual budget, audit reports and financial statements.
Serve as Chair of any Board Committee created to deliver on the Director’s specific mandate.
Participate in other Board Committees as a member.
Participate in Firefighters Without Borders fundraising and special events.

Specific Responsibilities of the Director and Board Treasurer:
Prepare and monitor the overall budget of the FWB in collaboration with the other Committee Chairs.
Prepare the annual budget and present it to the Board at the February meeting for review and discussion, and present it to the Board for approval at the March meeting in final form.
Oversee the annual preparation of financial statements, including the audit process if required, in compliance with regulatory requirements and keep the Board informed on status.
Oversee bookkeeping including deposits, expenses, reimbursements and provide regular reports to the Board on the financial state of the organization.
Ensure that all reports, financial or otherwise, and updates are distributed to the Directors at least three days in advance of any Board meeting.
Keep financial reports in a centralized shared file.
Serve as Chair of the Finance and Investments Committee.
Oversee compliance with authorized signatory policy including approval limits and disbursements of monies as approved by the Board.
Act as signing officer, with another officer, for cheques and other disbursements.
Keep full and accurate accounts of all organizational receipts and disbursements.
Receive and deposit all monies due to the organization.
Ensure that the government filing requirements are observed with respect to the filing of financial reports, tax reports and audits.
Issue tax receipts for sponsors and funders.

Skills:
Experience in finance, accounting and/or book-keeping. Familiarity with Quickbooks.
Previous board experience is considered an asset. Familiarity with board governance of not-for-profit charities preferred.
Strong computer skills.
Experience working in a volunteer-based not-for-profit organization.
Passionate about making positive change in the community.
Able to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Willingness to contribute 10-12 hours/per month to contribute to a working Board.

NOTE: The successful candidate will be required to provide three (3) references and agree to a criminal records check.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, submit a résumé and cover letter outlining your interest and experience to:
Sonya Santolin
Director and Board Secretary, Chair of the Nominating & Governance Committee
Firefighters Without Borders
sonya@firefighterswithoutborders.org

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