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The JSPCA have appointed Debra D'Orleans, the former Director of Municipal Services for St. Helier as their new CEO.
Ms D'Orleans took up her new post on Monday, taking over from volunteer boss Kevin Keen who was appointed in October 2018, for what was meant to be only six months, as the charity was “fighting” for survival due to significant debts.
Ms D'Orleans' appointment comes just two weeks after the charity's former Chief Executive, Major Stephen Coleman, was charged with fraud.
Pictured: Major Coleman was charged with fraud last month.
The JSPCA says it received over 20 "high quality" applications to fill in the role. "After a thorough process the selection panel were unanimous in recommending Debra for appointment based on her substantial management experience and a clear commitment to our work," a spokesperson for the charity said.
Charles Gruchy, the JSPCA's President, said Ms D'Orleans' appointment was "another significant step" in the charity's recovery. After what he described as "a difficult few years" he said the team were delighted to have been able to attract such an "experienced candidate for this important role who shares our passion for animals."
"We are also very grateful for the assistance of Kevin during what has been a very significant year for us," he added.
Ms D'Orleans has been involved in animal charities for over 30 years. Starting as a volunteer for a cat shelter and assisting with the Riding for Disabled, she joined the RSPB Barn Owl captive breeding programme out of love for barn owls and also trained as an Otter surveyor for the Cheshire Wildlife Trust.
She has held a number of senior operational roles both in the UK and Jersey. In her most recent position, that of Director of Municipal Services for St, Helier, Ms D'Orleans implemented major changes to the waste collection service. She worked in collaboration with the teams to reduce inefficiencies, leading to the development and implementation of the kerbside recycling services.
She also initiated and introduced a scheme to support local charities through advertising on refuse vehicles.
Previously, Ms D'Orleans was Service Improvement Manager for Public Health and prior to that, Head of Postal Services for Jersey Post where she was responsible for the development, direction and management of the business unit.
Commenting on her appointment, Ms D’Orleans said she was "extremely honoured" to be offered the opportunity to lead the charity. "As an animal lover I am really looking forward to working with the dedicated teams, volunteers and supporters to continue their valuable work," she said.
Pictured: Kevin Keen has been the interim CEO since October 2018.
Before her move to Jersey in 2001, she also had a varied career with the Ministry of Defence, specialising in Avionic logistics support for the Armed Forces.
Kevin Keen has offered his voluntary services to help Ms D'Orleans in her new role and will continue to be available to the Committee or advice and support beyond that.
He said: "I have enjoyed my time with the JSPCA and look forward to assisting Debra and the Committee in the continued recovery and progress of this important Jersey charity.”
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