Chair of Board of Trustees

About this opportunity

We are seeking a committed vegetarian or vegan interested in taking up the role of Chair on our Board of Trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information on healthy eating and rights, and enjoy good quality food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has achieved sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

In anticipation of our current Chair completing her tenure in 2025, we currently seek someone who has the potential to lead our small board and sustain its effectiveness in supporting VfL towards further progress in the years ahead. Ideally, the candidate will have at least 3 years’ experience in Governance and an understanding of the sector within which VfL operates.

The role of Trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.