Audit Committee Member - This is not a Paid Position

ClimateWorks Foundation (“CWF”) is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charity with a global mission to end the climate crisis by amplifying the power of philanthropy. Since our founding in 2008, we’ve collaborated with foundations, NGOs, and climate leaders around the world to tackle climate change on a global scale. We have awarded over $1.8 billion in grants to more than 850 organizations that advance climate solutions around the world. We have helped grow the field of climate philanthropy to where it stands today, establishing infrastructure, global networks, and momentum for continued growth. Our collaborative global programs and services scale solutions and produce results that are bending the emissions curve.

ClimateWorks is governed by a Board of Directors (the “Board”) that includes leaders of some of the world’s most reputable philanthropic, academic, and business institutions active in efforts to tackle climate change. The primary purpose of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board of CWF regarding the selection and termination of an independent auditor, assure the ongoing independence of the auditor, and review the auditor’s report.          

The key responsibilities of the Audit Committee are:

• Recommending to the Board the retention and termination of CWF’s independent auditor
• Negotiating the auditor’s compensation
• Conferring with the auditor regarding CWF’s financial affairs to ensure that they are in order
• Reviewing and determining whether to accept the audit
• Reviewing and recommending Board approval of audited financial statements
• Reviewing and recommending Board approval of the federal tax return (IRS Form 990)
• Approving the performance of any other non-audit services provided to CWF by the independent auditor and assuring that the provision of such services conforms with the standards for auditor independence
• Overseeing the adequacy of CWF’s system of internal control over financial reporting (approvals, authorizations, reconciliations, security of assets, segregations of duties)
• Overseeing the adequacy of CWF’s whistleblower enforcement process (process for receipt and investigation of allegations of fraudulent accounting and other financial matters by internal or external parties)

Audit Committee terms/participation

CWF’s Audit Committee Members will serve a three-year term and will then be eligible for re-appointment for up to two additional terms. Committee meetings are typically held at least three times per year by video conference (so there is flexibility in where members are based). There is a great opportunity to build relationships with members of the Board as part of serving on the Audit Committee. The Committee is comprised of both volunteer outside members and members of the Board. Committee members are invited to attend Board sessions regarding the audit and are extended further invitations to Board meetings and events.

Qualifications

Selected Committee members will have the following qualifications:

• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a passion for winning the battle against climate change
• Through education and experience, an understanding of and experience in at least one of the following areas:

o   applying generally accepted accounting principles and preparing financial statements for a U.S.-based organization

o   internal controls and procedures for financial reporting

o   audit committee functions

• Professional experience with philanthropy or the nonprofit sector is a plus

Service on CWF’s Audit Committee is without remuneration, except for administrative support, travel, and accommodation costs in relation to the Committee member’s duties.

Last updated on May 15, 2024