The RSPCA has appointed experienced interim charity chief executive Shān Nicholas to cover its top role while it finds a replacement for Chris Sherwood, who becomes CEO of the NSPCC in January.

Nicholas has been leading charities on a temporary basis since 2007 when she became interim chief executive of YMCA England and Wales.

Over her 17 years career as an interim CEO, she has led among others Brook London, Child Poverty Action Group, The Children’s Society, Drinkaware, Refugee Council, Independent Age and Parkinson’s UK.

She had previously spent more than two years as CEO of The Princess Royal Trust for Carers and held senior roles at The Runnymede Trust, Hackney council and Stonham Housing Association.

In addition, she has been a consultant at court service CAFCASS and interim director of criminal justice at Barrow Cadbury Trust.

“I have long-admired the RSPCA and I’m excited to be joining in this interim role as the charity enters a third century of changing laws, changing industries and changing attitudes to make life better for animals we share our lives with,” said Nicholas.

“I’m looking forward to working with the board and with our expert and passionate people as we enter 2025 with a refreshed strategy and even bigger ambitions and goals to inspire everyone to create a better world for every animal.”

She is joining early next month to allow a handover with Sherwood before he moves to the NSPCC.

RSPCA chair Claire Horton added: “We are delighted Shān will be joining us in the interim role. She brings a wealth of experience from her impressive leadership of over 20 large charities and non-profit organisations.

“It is in an incredibly exciting time as we are focusing efforts on our frontline, education and advocacy work having an even bigger impact for animals, by working in partnership with others.

“Shān’s insight from working in the social sector, mental health, children’s and older people’s services and criminal justice will be invaluable in our purpose to inspire everyone to create a better world for every animal.

A shortlist of candidates to replace Sherwood will be drawn up next month, with interviews beginning in January.

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