Our People
Meet our Chief Executive, directors and trustees
Linda Edwards – Chief Executive
As Chief Executive at Working Animals International, Linda leads our vital work to transform the lives of working animals who support the world’s poorest communities. A distinguished leader who has successfully worked across the animal welfare, international development, humanitarian and commercial sectors, Linda has previously worked as Chief Executive of the charities United Purpose and Build Africa. She has also served as Executive Director of Operations at The Donkey Sanctuary.
Linda has lived and worked overseas extensively, from Africa, Asia and Australasia to Central and South America, Europe and the Middle East. After serving as Marie Stopes International’s Country Director in Malawi, she moved to Australia to cover the organisation’s work across the Pacific Asia region. Linda has also led international programmes as Country Director for Merlin and the Danish Refugee Council, based in Sudan, DR Congo and Iraq. As a keen animal lover, Linda is deeply committed to SPANA’s work and values.
Our Trustees
Working Animals International’s Trustees are responsible for ensuring our charity is pursuing its long-term goals, effectively managing its finances and successfully fulfilling its charitable obligations, while operating in line with all legal requirements and the wishes of our supporters.
Marianne Davies – Chair of Trustees
In addition to being Working Animals International’s Chair of Trustees, Marianne is also a Non-Executive Director for B3 Living, which is a social housing company, and is also an Independent EDI Committee Member for The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. As the Global Head of People Services with GSK, Marianne brings a wealth of HR, Change management and Operational experience. She has a strong interest in animal welfare and, having visited many of the countries where Working Animals International works, is keen to contribute to improving the lives and communities of working animals. Marianne joined the charity’s Board of Trustees in September 2021 and was appointed Chair of Trustees in March 2024.
