Help Shape the Future of Companion Animal Health – ACAHF Seeks Directors

The Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation (ACAHF) is inviting expressions of interest from passionate and experienced professionals to join its Board as honorary Directors. As Australia’s leading charitable foundation dedicated to advancing companion animal health research, ACAHF funds innovative projects that improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases affecting dogs and cats. The Foundation works closely with veterinarians, researchers, industry partners and supporters to drive scientific advancement and enhance the welfare of companion animals nationwide. ACAHF is a registered charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.

Join a Board Making a Difference

ACAHF is seeking to strengthen its Board through the appointment of both Veterinarian and Non-Veterinarian Directors. These honorary positions provide an opportunity to contribute strategic leadership, governance expertise and professional insight to an organisation committed to improving health outcomes for companion animals.

The Foundation is looking for individuals who share a passion for companion animal welfare and can help guide ACAHF’s future growth, research priorities and community impact.

Opportunities for Non-Veterinarian Directors

ACAHF is seeking one Non-Veterinarian Directors to strengthen the Foundation’s governance, fundraising capability and strategic visibility.

Professionals with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:

  • Marketing, communications and brand development
  • Fundraising, philanthropy and donor engagement
  • Partnerships and stakeholder relations
  • Financial management and accounting
  • Not-for-profit governance
  • Animal health, pharmaceuticals, pet nutrition, technology or animal welfare organisations

Non-Veterinarian Directors will contribute to:

  • Strategic planning and governance oversight
  • Marketing, branding and fundraising initiatives
  • Financial oversight and risk management
  • Stakeholder engagement and advocacy
  • Board and committee participation

Opportunities for Veterinarian Directors

ACAHF is also seeking one veterinarians who are passionate about advancing companion animal health and research.

Applications are welcomed from:

  • Practising veterinarians
  • Veterinary specialists
  • Academics and researchers
  • Veterinarians working in industry

Ideal candidates will bring:

  • A strong understanding of clinical challenges facing companion animals
  • An appreciation for veterinary research and evidence-based practice
  • Leadership, governance or committee experience (desirable)

Veterinarian Directors will contribute to:

  • Governance and strategic direction
  • Evaluation of research relevance and impact
  • Professional representation of ACAHF within the veterinary sector
  • Fundraising and stakeholder engagement activities
  • Board and committee participation

Who Should Apply?
Successful candidates will share a commitment to improving companion animal health outcomes and demonstrate:

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Strategic thinking and sound professional judgement
  • Integrity, professionalism and ethical leadership
  • A passion for advancing companion animal welfare and research

Previous board or not-for-profit experience is desirable but not essential.

 

Board Commitment
Directors participate in:

  • Committee and subcommittee activities
  • Strategic planning and governance discussions
  • Advocacy, fundraising and stakeholder engagement initiatives

How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit:

  • A brief cover letter outlining their relevant experience and interest in the role
  • A current CV
  • An optional statement outlining why companion animal health and research is important to them

Applications should be sent to:

Garth McGilvray AM BVSc FAICD
📧 garth.mcgilvray@covetrus.com 
Applications close 18 August 2026.

For further information, visit www.acahf.org or contact Garth McGilvray directly on 0411 563 360.

 

Make a Meaningful Contribution

Whether you are a veterinary professional wanting to support and guide research priorities, or an experienced business, governance or fundraising leader looking to contribute your expertise, ACAHF offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future of companion animal health in Australia.
We encourage interested AVA members and industry professionals to consider applying and becoming part of ACAHF’s important work supporting better health outcomes for dogs and cats.