Join Letchworth Foodbank as Chair of the Board and guide our next stage of growth and community impact
What difference will you make?
As our new Chair, you will be joining the Foodbank at an exciting stage in our journey. With the recent arrival of our first paid Director, Charlie Hayter, we are entering a new phase of growth and professionalisation, reducing sole reliance on trustees and creating space for more strategic leadership. Financially stable and well-supported by our community, we distribute vital food and financial aid every year, meeting urgent need at a time when the cost-of-living crisis makes our work more relevant than ever. Your impact will be to guide the board and Director in shaping and delivering a new threeyear strategy, ensuring we build on strong foundations to expand our reach and deepen our impact. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, volunteer-powered charity that is rooted in its community, and to help set its direction for the future.
What are we looking for?
At Letchworth Foodbank, we're proud of what we've achieved so far and excited about the future. We're looking for a Chair who shares our vision and will help us make the right decisions as we continue to grow and serve our community. Essential Experience in leadership, governance, or board-level roles. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and unite people. Strategic thinker with sound judgment and an inclusive leadership style. Empathy towards tackling and relieving poverty. Desirable Understanding of small charities and grassroots organisations. Awareness of safeguarding, equality, and community engagement. Experience in financial management and charity finance. Support and training will be provided by the Trussell Trust to help trustees and Chairs build confidence in these areas. We champion diversity and welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
What will you be doing?
Our mission is to prevent and relieve poverty locally by providing emergency food and financial support. Distributing over 40 tonnes of food and £50,000 in vouchers each year, we are looking for a Chair to work with the Trustees and Director to drive our strategy and increase our impact. Key Responsibilities Provide leadership to the board, ensuring trustees fulfill their governance responsibilities. Chair regular board meetings and guide strategic planning. Support trustee recruitment, training, and development. Act as an ambassador with partners, funders, and the wider community. Oversee financial controls, safeguarding, and risk management. Time Commitment The expected commitment is around 1-2 days per month. This includes preparation for and attendance at meetings, occasional events, and engagement with staff and volunteers. See further details in the candidate pack.