Treasurer and Grants Officer

The Orkney Nature Festival is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to serve as Treasurer and Grants Officer. This key role is instrumental in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the festival, which celebrates the unique wildlife and natural heritage of Orkney through a range of community events, educational programmes, and conservation activities. The Treasurer and Grants Officer will be responsible for financial stewardship, oversight, and the proactive identification and management of grants and other funding opportunities to support the festival's ongoing success.

What could a volunteer gain from the experience:
This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills while making a real contribution to Orkney’s nature and community. As Treasurer and Grants Officer, you’ll gain hands-on experience of charity finance, grant development, fundraising and organisational governance, while working alongside a friendly and committed volunteer team. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills in budgeting, financial reporting, grant writing, project management and working with funders, with support and a thorough handover provided. Training and professional development opportunities may also be available. Most importantly, you’ll play a key part in helping the Orkney Nature Festival grow and remain financially sustainable, supporting events and projects that connect people with Orkney’s wildlife, natural heritage and conservation. It’s a chance to put your existing experience to good use, learn new skills and see the direct impact of your contribution within the local community.

Experience required

• Significant experience in financial management, budgeting, and reporting, preferably within the charity, events, or environmental sector.
• High level of accuracy in record-keeping, reconciliations, and financial administration.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare successful grant applications, manage reporting deadlines, and cultivate relationships with funders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Excellent time management and the ability to juggle multiple priorities, particularly during peak festival periods and grant deadlines.
• Capacity to work effectively within a volunteer committee, taking initiative while also supporting collective decision-making.
• Commitment to ethical financial stewardship, confidentiality, and the safeguarding of sensitive information.
• Genuine interest in wildlife, conservation, and the aims of the Orkney Nature Festival.

Training details

The successful volunteer will receive a comprehensive handover from the outgoing postholder, alongside ongoing support from the Festival Committee and Chair. Training will be provided on the festival’s financial systems, budgeting and reporting processes, grant management, and relevant charity requirements. Templates, guidance and practical resources will be provided to support the role, with opportunities to develop further knowledge in areas such as charity finance, grant writing and environmental funding where appropriate. No one is expected to know everything from day one — we will provide the support needed to help you become confident in the role.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

Frequency & commitment

This role is flexible, however you will be expected to attend 1 board meeting per month and attend events during the festival in May.

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