The Committee of Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) are delighted to announce that they have appointed Debra D’Orleans to the role of Chief Executive. She will start work on September 2nd. There was considerable interest in the role, with over 20 high quality applications received, 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.
Debra is passionate about animal welfare and 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. Her love of barn owls led to her taking part in the RSPB Barn Owl captive breeding programme. She also trained as an Otter surveyor for the Cheshire Wildlife Trust.
Debra has held a number of senior operational roles both in the UK and Jersey, the most recent as Director of Municipal Services for the Parish of St Helier. Debra successfully implemented major changes to the waste collection service, by working with the teams to reduce inefficiencies leading to the development and implementation of the kerbside recycling services. She also initiated and introduced the scheme to support local charities with advertising on refuse vehicles. Previously, Debra was Service Improvement manager for Public Health. Prior to that, Debra held the post of Head of Postal Services for Jersey Post where she was responsible for the development, direction and management of the business unit. Before her move to Jersey in 2001, Debra had a varied career with the Ministry of Defence, specialising in Avionic logistics support for the Armed Forces.
Kevin Keen who has been interim Chief Executive since October 2018 has offered his voluntary services to support an orderly transition of management responsibility and will continue to be available to the Committee and Debra for advice and support beyond that.
Charles Gruchy -President “This is another significant step in the recovery of JSPCA after a difficult few years we are 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”.
Debra D’Orleans- Chief Executive “I am extremely honoured to be offered the opportunity to be Chief Executive of JSPCA. As an animal lover I am really looking forward to working with the dedicated teams, volunteers and supporters to continue their valuable work”
Kevin Keen 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.”
