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.
David Bassom – Director of Fundraising
David joined SPANA in October 2017 and leads work to raise vital voluntary funds for the charity. David has previously served as Director of Fundraising and Marketing at the Royal National Children’s Foundation and Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications at Barnardo’s. He has also held head of marketing and communications roles at Blind Veterans UK, the NSPCC and Girlguiding UK. David’s work in the charity sector has earned several accolades, including PRCA, IOIC and Fundraising Magazine Awards, as well as a CharityComms Inspiring Communicator Award. David began his career in journalism, contributing to national and local titles including The Guardian, Radio Times and Heat.