Trustee with expertise in Financial Management or Accountancy

South Dublin County Childcare Committee (SDCCC)

South Dublin County Childcare Committee (SDCCC) is one of 33 City and County Childcare Committees (CCCs) across Ireland, funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth (DCEDIY). SDCCC plays a key role in supporting and enhancing early years services in South Dublin County. We provide guidance and resources to early years providers, parents, childminders, and employers, helping to improve accessibility, affordability, and quality in early childhood care and education. For parents, SDCCC offers information and advice on choosing an early years' service, understanding key considerations, and accessing financial supports to reduce costs. For early years providers, we offer guidance on national practice frameworks (Síolta & Aistear), accredited and non-accredited training, compliance with Preschool Regulations, funding requirements, and overall service development and improvement.

Our mission is to strategically coordinate the sustainable development of an accessible, high-quality, and inclusive childcare infrastructure in South Dublin County.

The Role:

SDCCC is seeking a trustee with expertise in financial management or accountancy to provide strategic oversight of the charity's finances, ensure robust financial governance, and support the board in making informed financial decisions that sustain and grow SDCCC's impact.

Ideal candidates will hold a professional accountancy qualification such as CAI/ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CPA Ireland, and will have at least five years' experience in a senior financial management role. They should bring expertise in budgeting, financial planning, risk management, and financial reporting, along with a solid understanding of charity accounting standards (SORP), the Charities Act, and the reporting requirements of the Charities Regulator or equivalent body.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic oversight of SDCCC's financial policies, controls, and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and alignment with best practice. You will support the Board in understanding the financial implications of key decisions, contribute to discussions on risk management, cash flow, and long-term financial planning, and act as an authorised signatory for the organisation.

Previous experience as a trustee or non-executive board member is desirable, though not essential, provided candidates can demonstrate a strong understanding of governance in the Irish non-profit sector. Familiarity with public funding accounting and compliance is important, as is the ability to bring strategic financial insight to support the organisation's sustainability. Excellent communication skills are essential, with the ability to explain financial concepts clearly and confidently to board members without a finance background.

General Trustee duties of a Charity Trustee

• Governance & Compliance – Uphold SDCCC's mission, legal duties, and regulatory requirements.
• Financial & Strategic Oversight – Manage assets responsibly and ensure long-term sustainability.
• Board Participation – Attend meetings, contribute to committees, and support leadership.
• Ethical Conduct – Maintain integrity, confidentiality, and avoid conflicts of interest.
• Advocacy & Representation – Promote SDCCC and engage with the community.

Responsibilities will include the following:

• Governance & Strategy – Provide strategic direction, contribute to policy formation, and ensure compliance with governance requirements.
• Financial Oversight – Review budgets, financial statements, and funding applications to ensure sustainability.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Represent SDCCC, build partnerships, and advocate for ELC and SAC improvements.
• Organisational Development – Support strategic objectives, monitor impact, and advise on service improvements.
• Board Participation – Attend meetings, collaborate with the board, and contribute to decision-making.

Essential Skills/Qualities required for these roles:

• Leadership & Strategic Thinking – Ability to provide direction, make informed decisions, and drive organisational growth.
• Financial & Risk Awareness – Understanding of financial management, budgeting, and risk assessment in the non-profit sector.
• Advocacy & Communication – Strong ability to represent SDCCC, engage stakeholders, and influence policy.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – Works effectively with board members, staff, and external partners to achieve common goals.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Proactive in addressing challenges and responding to sector developments.

Board Meetings:

The board will hold six meetings per year, along with six sub-committee meetings, which may not involve every trustee but may require participation at some point. Meetings will be conducted through a mix of in-person sessions in Clondalkin, South Dublin, online meetings, and hybrid formats.