ABOUT JUSTICE DEFENDERS
The lack of meaningful access to justice currently impacts nearly two of every three people worldwide. From developing countries like Uganda to the United States (which has the highest population of prisoners globally) – we are living amidst a global justice crisis.
We believe that everyone has the right to tell their side of the story before being convicted of a crime or punished. Regardless of who you are, where you've been, what you've done or what's been done to you, we will welcome you and we will defend you. It's the judge's job to pass judgement, not ours. We are hated by many and expected to hate each other. Instead, we grow in love for one another and those we serve, with no exceptions. Because our past need not define our future.
Justice Defenders works with defenceless communities to provide world-class legal education, training, and practice. Training paralegals within defenceless communities provides access to free legal services at the point of greatest need. Our paralegals oversee legal offices, file tracing, advocating on individual cases; collaborating with pro bono partners for court appearances; conducting alternate dispute resolution, and seeking diversion from the formal court system. Why do we train people in prison rather than simply working to give more people access to lawyers? Because of Saint Oscar Romero’s words:
“There are many things that can only be seen through eyes that have cried.”
We work for justice for everyone, without breaking fellowship with anyone. Incarcerated people, formerly incarcerated people, and prison staff offer unique perspectives on legal systems. Yet their experiences are rarely listened to. Bringing them together with prosecutors, the police, judges, experienced lawyers, and academics creates remarkable possibilities for good.
Guided by our values of humility, bravery, solidarity and excellence. After almost 20 years of service we are in the process of establishing ourselves as a community law firm and legal college; a manifestation of our commitment to excellence. Together, through radical integration, we can build a world where each of us is equally accountable to and protected by the law.
Get to know us better.
For more detailed insight into who we are, our values and vision, take a look at our messaging platform.
The Redemptive Nonprofit Playbook sets the standard for the kind of community we want to be and are working towards.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
Our hope is that our board's guidance and oversight is among Justice Defenders' greatest assets. We value proximity and are investing in cultivating a healthy, mutually appreciative, engaged board. One that is diverse and unified. Ensuring all of our stakeholders are represented and that our joint expectations are clear, high and alligned to our mission.
As our budgets grow, we won’t lose our gratitude for the generosity that enables us to do this work. As with our board, we commit to donor relationships of mutual benefit, respect, and trust. Being transparent about the sometimes unpredictable world of our work and prisons. We become true partners, sharing burden and working shoulder-to-shoulder for justice.
It is in this context that Justice Defenders seeks a Treasurer for its global board situated in the United States. The Treasurer will coordinate with the Treasurer of the three subsidiary boards within the Justice Defenders group and will be a key link ensuring global financial excellence, integrity and continuity. At a minimum the Treasurer will spend at least eight hours per quarter in meetings plus at least two hours per month supporting various approvals and transactions. Initially additional time will likely be required for onboarding and support for developing Justice Defenders’ investment policy and strategy.
Hear more about the Treasurer role from our CEO and Founder Alexander McLean:
RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary responsibilities for the role of the Treasurer are the following:
- Take lead responsibility for the governance engagement for financial matters on behalf of the Board of Directors. The views of the Treasurer shall be noted when financial matters are considered at a meeting of the Board.
- Liaise with the relevant member of Justice Defenders' executive management team to set the agenda for Finance committee meetings, ensure relevant follow-up to the meetings and committee work and report back to the full board regarding committee work and recommendations.
- When applicable, ensure that an audit is carried out of the organization’s financial records and compliance with these procedures at least once in every 12-month period and report to the Board on the findings and serve as the primary board point of contact with the auditors.
- Act in accordance with delegated authority, as approved by the board, with respect to but not limited to compliance, financial documentation, banking, receipting and custody of funds.
PROFILE
- Significant, demonstrable experience in a senior financial leadership role gained within any (or a combination) of business, government, church or voluntary sectors in the United States. Experience in venture philanthropy is helpful.
- Deep knowledge of best practice and standards for nonprofit accounting, particularly Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
- Previous experience of chairing committees, boards or leadership teams effectively.
- The ability to build an effective relationship with the leadership representative on the committee.
- Ability to foster a collaborative team environment with other committee members.
- Ability to synthesize and present committee work to the full board.
COMMITMENT
- The ability and willingness to participate in quarterly global board meetings plus potentially joining subsidiary board meetings as needed.
- The ability and willingness to participate in quarterly Finance Committee meetings.
- Availability for as needed telephone conversations and/or email correspondence with the leadership team.
- Be able to serve as the Treasurer for at least one year, with the potential for extension following one year of service.
We especially encourage consideration by those who have been in prison, were the recipient of free school meals, or are from the first generation of their family to attend university and from those who consider themselves to be part of minority groups.
LOCATION
This role is open to candidates based in the United States.
Deadline: Applications for this role will be reviewed on an rolling basis.
Like to apply?
Kindly visit this link. Applications should be received by the stipulated deadline. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
