Director of Finance

Overview

GIY is seeking a Financial Director to join our Board of Directors. This is a voluntary role providing strategic financial oversight to ensure growth and viability of GIY. The Financial Director will play a key role in governance, compliance, and risk management, working closely with the Board, CEO, and internal finance function.

Who We Are GIY is a social enterprise that inspires and empowers people to reconnect to real food by growing, cooking and eating better. By inspiring, educating and supporting people to bring real food into their everyday lives, we aim to create a healthier, more sustainable Ireland. Our headquarters, GROW HQ, in Waterford, is a national centre for food education, home to a thriving café, shop, gardens, and learning spaces.

Though demand for our services remains high, in the last number of years GIY's income has fallen, particularly that from corporate CSR donations and grants, reflecting a wider sectoral challenge for non-profits (particularly those in the sustainability space). 2025 was a challenging year for the organization and we took difficult steps to restructure around the new funding reality. It is in that context that we are looking to recruit new expertise to the board as we focus on building financial strength and organisation resilience for the future.

The Board of Directors oversees GIY’s strategic direction, governance, and sustainability. Board members:

• Provide leadership and ensure alignment with GIY’s mission and values
• Support the CEO and management team in achieving strategic objectives
• Oversee compliance with legal and financial obligations
• Ensure financial sustainability and risk management
• Advocate for GIY and help grow its network of supporters

In addition to general board duties, the Financial Director will:

• Join the Finance and Remuneration (FAR) Subcommittee, with potential to chair in the future
• Provide oversight of financial policies, controls, and compliance
• Act as an authorised signatory for GIY
• Support the Board in reviewing annual accounts and financial reports
• Work with the CEO and Finance Manager to implement auditor recommendations
• Advise on new financial procedures when necessary
• Ensure robust accounting practices are in place

We are looking for an individual with:

• An accountancy qualification, ideally with at least 10 years of management experience
• Experience working in or having worked in a large finance or consultancy firm or another relevant industry
• An understanding of social enterprise and an appreciation of the sector
• The time and commitment to fulfil the role effectively
• A strong desire to implement the highest standards of governance
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team
• Previous experience as a treasurer or finance director on the board of a CLG, charity, or social enterprise (desirable but not essential)

• The Board meets quarterly, in person.
• The FAR committee meets monthly, online
• Additional subcommittee meetings and ad-hoc consultations may be required
• The role is voluntary, but reasonable expenses may be covered
• Location:
  
  Based in Ireland (required)

The Final date to receive applications is Friday 27th February 2026.

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