Our People
Meet our Chief Executive, directors and trustees
Linda Edwards – Chief Executive
As SPANA’s Chief Executive, 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
SPANA’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
Marianne is Global Head of People Services with GSK, where she has spent much of her executive career. She is also a Trustee of the Youth Action Alliance, and an Independent Committee Member on the Equality, Inclusion and Diversity Committee at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Marianne brings a wealth of HR and Change management experience from her career. She also has a strong interest in animal welfare and, having visited many of the countries where SPANA works, is keen to contribute to improving the lives and communities of working animals. Marianne joined SPANA’s Board of Trustees in September 2021 and was appointed interim Chair of Trustees in March 2024. She is also a member of SPANA’s People and Safeguarding Committee.
