Operational Expert on Management Committee - Sutton Community Farm

We are looking for an operational expert to help guide our farm’s operational strategy. Over the past decade, we have built a thriving community enterprise that delivers fresh, organic produce to hundreds of households each week. We grow a portion of our produce on site and provide a market channel for local, organic suppliers. Our experienced growing team works alongside volunteers to manage an agroecological smallholding of 7 acres, and we are now seeking expert guidance to support our long-term operational strategy.

About the Organisation

Sutton Community Farm is a community-owned organic fruit and veg farm in Wallington, bringing people together through growing good food. Volunteers are at the heart of our farm, helping create opportunities for local people to connect, contribute and learn.

We use organic farming methods that nourish our soil and ecosystems, support farmers’ livelihoods and produce delicious food that helps people thrive. We also train future farmers to champion a better food system.

Our mission is to nourish people, nurture the planet and cultivate community.

What you will be doing

Joining our management committee you will:
  • Contribute to strategic direction and governance oversight
  • Advise farm staff on long-term operational planning; balancing crop production, vegbox retail, wholesale sales and community programs with financial sustainability.
  • Explore and support transitions toward innovative community-supported farming models.
  • Help secure the farm's land, assets, and soil health for future generations of local growers.
  • Review and advise on capital expenditure proposals for farm infrastructure, machinery, and equipment.
  • Define and track key operational performance metrics, including crop yields, labour efficiency, and health & safety compliance.
  • Guide the growing team in trialling sustainable agroecological techniques and optimising harvest workflows.
  • Attend bi-monthly committee meetings to report on operational progress, risks, and strategic opportunities.

What's in it for you?

  • Contribute to our real-world implementation of a sustainable food system and community wellbeing initiative.
  • Transfer your business skills to a community enterprise.
  • Develop your mentoring capabilities.
  • Understand effective governance.
  • Contribute to strategic planning and ethical business development.
  • 20% discount on our online farm shop.
  • Integration into our vibrant farm community.
  • Attending our public events and farm celebrations.
  • Participation in staff training opportunities.
  • Travel expense reimbursement (up to £10 per meeting).

What skills will you need?

  • High-level understanding of small-scale commercial horticulture, local supply chains and the macroeconomic pressures facing community farms.
  • Ability to guide a small organisation through operational shifts, infrastructure investments, and scaling challenges without compromising core community values.
  • Ability to act as a ‘critical friend’ to the growing and retail staff.
  • Knowledge of a wide variety of community farming models and the ability to envision how they could be applied at the farm to meet our objectives and purpose.
  • Hands-on experience and understanding of the physical work involved.
  • Experience of managing operational risks.
  • Strong collaborative communication and a proactive approach.
  • Interest in sustainable food production and building a deeper connection to the farm and local community.
  • Knowledge of the local area that SCF operates in (desirable).

Minimum age 18+

Further information from Sutton Community Farm

What's the time commitment and where? 

Time commitment:

8–10 hours per month
Meetings: Evening committee meeting every two months (1.5 hours online, usually on Tues or Wed)
Term Length: 3 years

Location:

Online with occasional visits to the Farm (40a Telegraph Track, Wallington, London SM6 0SH)

How can I apply?

Please complete the form below and we will put you in contact with the organisation.   It’s helpful if you can tell us a little about yourself and why you’re interested in this role in the message box below. 

By completing this form you agree for us to pass on your contact details to the organisation.

 

 

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