vicechairpersons

Vice chairperson, also written as vice-chairperson or vice-chair, is an officer position in organizations such as boards of directors, committees, and governing bodies. The vice chair typically acts as second-in-command to the chair and is prepared to assume the chair’s duties in the chair’s absence or incapacity. In larger organizations, there may be more than one vice chair, sometimes with different areas of responsibility or coverage for different sessions.

Duties commonly include presiding over meetings in the chair’s absence, helping set the agenda, coordinating with committees, and representing the organization in external relations. The vice chair may also lead committees, assist in governance tasks, and serve as a liaison between the chair and board members or stakeholders. Powers and voting rights vary by organization and are defined in bylaws or governing documents.

Appointment and term practices vary by jurisdiction and organization. A vice chair is often elected by the board or appointed by the chair under a bylaws framework, with a term aligned to the board’s term or a fixed period. Some bodies grant the vice chair voting rights, while others designate a largely ceremonial or advisory role.

Contexts differ across sectors. In corporate boards, the vice chair’s authority is determined by corporate bylaws and can range from a primarily supportive role to a co-leadership position. In legislative or nonprofit settings, the role is similarly to assist the chair and to stand in when needed, with responsibilities shaped by the body’s rules and traditions. Related terms include deputy chair and co-chair.