Animal welfare and veterinary charity Mayhew has appointed Butterfly Conservation director Elvira Meucci-Lyons as its next chief executive.

She replaces Sherine Wheeler, who will be stepping down at the end of March after two years leading the charity.

Meucci-Lyons is currently Butterfly Conservation’s director of income, marketing and communications. She has also led fundraising and communications teams at CPRE the Countryside Charity, Refuge and Shelter.

She has also been a director at Dogs Trust, in charge of its education and engagement campaigns.

“I have always hugely admired Mayhew for the services it runs and how it works so closely with communities to improve life for dogs, cats and people that need it most,” said Meucci-Lyons.

“I couldn’t be more excited to have the opportunity to lead this organisation, and to work together with our committed staff, volunteers, and the Board.

“The charity has ambitions plans to match the all-time high demand for animal welfare services, and I can’t wait to play my part in making this happen. I feel totally honoured to be able to combine my skills and experience with my absolute passion and dedication to animal welfare and social welfare.”

Mayhew chair Julianne Hicks added: “I look forward to welcoming Elvira, with her extensive background in fundraising, to Mayhew as our new CEO and to working with her on the next stage of Mayhew’s journey.”

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