RSPCA announces Jeremy Cooper as new chief executive

RSPCA announces Jeremy Cooper as new chief executive

RSPCA announces Jeremy Cooper as new chief executive

The RSPCA – Britain’s biggest animal welfare charity – has appointed Jeremy Cooper as its new chief executive.

Jeremy will take up his new role on Monday 4 April, after previously spending nearly three years as chief executive of RSPCA Assured – formerly known as Freedom Food – the RSPCA’s ethical food label.

Jeremy, who also has more than 30 years experience in the retail, commercial and not-for-profit sector will move into the chief executive role from his current position as the RSPCA’s Director of Corporate Development.

The lifelong dog owner (pictured with his Airedale terrier, Daisy) and animal lover said today that he is delighted to be appointed the Society’s new chief executive and is looking forward to leading the charity’s ongoing pledge to prevent suffering and cruelty to animals.

He said: “The RSPCA is a unique charity with a long and proud history. To have been given the opportunity to lead the organisation responsible for giving so many animals a second chance of the  life they deserve is a huge honour.

“I want to continue the process of ensuring the RSPCA is a modern, outward looking organisation with a clear purpose and built on strong values. My role will be to ensure we have a strategic plan that allows us to rescue as many animals in need as possible and to prevent cruelty wherever it takes place.

“I’ve been lucky enough to see at first hand just what incredible work our dedicated staff do to help rescue and rehabilitate animals. I’ve been stunned and humbled at the compassion I’ve witnessed and the lengths our fantastic teams go to to improve the welfare of all animals, from pets and wildlife, to farm animals and animals used in research.

“We’ve been around nearly 190 years already, and I want to tap into the talent and passion already within the Society to ensure we can carry on for as long as cruelty to animals exists.”

Jeremy – who served in the Royal Air Force for nearly 10 years – has a long history with animals, from growing up on a dairy farm and spending time with his grandfather who cared for wildlife at Leeds Castle, in Kent, right through to his time as chief executive of RSPCA Assured .

The latest four legged friend to be part of his life is his three-year-old Airedale terrier Daisy who is described by Jeremy as “the most important part of the family.”

RSPCA chairman Daphne Harris said: “I am delighted to have someone of Jeremy’s calibre accept the role of chief executive and hopefully lead the RSPCA into a strong and successful era.

“Not only is Jeremy a huge advocate for animal welfare, he is a proven leader with the ability to inspire and drive organisations forward.

“My fellow RSPCA trustees and I are excited about working alongside Jeremy to ensure we maintain and build on the high standards we have set ourselves in improving animal welfare and tackling animal abuse across England and Wales.”

Jeremy Cooper will take over from the RSPCA’s acting chief executive David Canavan who will continue in his role as RSPCA trustee and Society vice-chairman.

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