Somerset animal rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming charity, Ferne Animal Sanctuary, announces the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer, Emma Purnell. Emma assumes the role of Ferne Animal Sanctuary CEO with immediate effect, following a competitive recruitment process.
Emma brings a wealth of experience and passion for Ferne’s mission, having first joined the charity in 2018 as Finance Manager. Over the past six years, she has played a key role in strengthening the Sanctuary’s financial resilience and operational performance. In addition to her finance leadership role, Emma has twice stepped into the position of Interim CEO, providing steadfast leadership most recently over the past two months following the departure of the previous Chief Executive.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to warmly congratulate Emma on her well-deserved appointment,” said Bob O’Connor, Chair of the Board. “Emma has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, financial acumen, and a heartfelt commitment to animal welfare. We are confident that under her guidance, Ferne will continue to thrive and grow.”
As CEO, Emma will focus on delivering Ferne’s ambitious plans for the future, including her vision of the sanctuary, its animals and the devoted experts at the heart of Ferne to be at the core of all strategical decisions made, from diversifying income streams to ensure financial sustainability to strengthening awareness and support of Ferne, its animals and the life-saving work that is carried out day to day. Emma will continue to build strong partnerships with stakeholders including local businesses, charities, valued supporters of Ferne, and the wider community while upholding the charity’s long-standing reputation for excellence in animal welfare.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Ferne Animal Sanctuary. Founded over 80 years ago, Ferne has long been a refuge for unwanted and neglected animals, rehoming them and promoting responsible pet ownership. As the charity adapts to a challenging economic environment, strong, visionary leadership will be vital to ensure the sanctuary continues to thrive for future generations.
Emma Purnell, Ferne’s new CEO comments, “I am honoured to lead Ferne into its next chapter; following many years at the sanctuary, I couldn’t feel more passionate about our charity mission and look forward to leading the future of the sanctuary. Ferne holds a special place in my heart, and I am committed to building on its proud legacy – ensuring we grow sustainably whilst always keeping our animals in need at the heart of everything we do.”
Ferne Animal Sanctuary looks forward to this exciting new era and thanks all supporters for their continued commitment to its mission.
Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a non-government funded charity that has provided refuge and rehabilitation to its animals for more than 80 years. Located in a Natural Landscapes area and nested in the Blackdown Hills near Chard, Somerset, Ferne Animal Sanctuary houses and cares for more than 300 animals on its 72-acre site.
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