Meet Animal Concern’s Board of Directors
A good charity relies on a good Board of Directors.
It is no small thing to take on a job that is voluntary and carries a lot of responsibility, ensuring good governance, financial stability, and supporting staff to carry out the objectives of the charity.
Jean joined the Board in September of 2025 and was at the forefront of resolving the internal challenges at that time.
She is a retired primary school teacher whose career has also involved her in quality assurance, community engagement and environmental learning. As a qualified Forest School Leader she is passionate about safeguarding the relationship young people have with nature and animals.
A member of Animal Concern for several years. Jean decided she wanted to do more for animals and stepped up to join the Board when it was in need of Trustees, bringing her ideas and skills to the table.
She lives with her two dogs and husband in Glasgow.
Jean Culley, Chairperson
Byron joined the Board at the beginning of 2026, and the charity couldn’t have been more pleased.
Byron is an academic at the Universities of Bristol and Bangor, with public appointments spanning the Ministry of Justice, the National Health Service, and a range of charities and public institutions. His work focuses on evidence-based policy, trust in institutions, and standards of public life — with a particular emphasis on the Nolan Principles, on which he is currently writing a book. His background gives him a distinctive perspective on what it means for organisations to be well-governed, accountable, and effective in pursuit of their mission.
He brings extensive trustee experience to Animal Concern, including serving as Chair of Trustees of Replacing Animal Research, an organisation whose mission — advancing the replacement of animals in medical experimentation — closely aligns with Animal Concern’s own long and distinguished history. His varied skills and knowledge have already brought new possibilities to Animal Concern in its future endeavours.
Byron Hyde, Vice Chair & Treasurer
Ben joined the Board in July 2026, bringing balance to our Board of Directors with his background as a medical writer and qualified doctor.
He brings with him strong analytical judgement, clear written communication and the ability to interpret complex evidence responsibly, as well as bringing experience of committee representation, strategic discussion and collaborative decision-making, supporting effective trustee contribution.
Ben demonstrates his commitment to animal welfare, conservation and ethical practice through his vegan values and voluntary work with a local rewilding charity, taking time to connect with the natural world through his keen interest in photography and environmental conservation. Animal Concern welcomes his positive energy, and balanced contribution to the board.
Animal Concern was thrilled to welcome Tim to the Board in June 2026.
With a PhD in Conservation Biology and over 30 years’ experience in wildlife management, including captive wildlife, species reintroduction, wildlife research, wildlife trade, and human-wildlife conflict. Much of this work incorporated animal welfare, giving him a clear view of what constitutes good and poor welfare in relation to human intervention. He has published several papers on animal welfare and threatened species conservation.
Tim also brings his years of experience serving as Chair on the Board of League Against Cruel Sports, and has a keen focus on ensuring a strong strategic plan and collaboration with others.
Ben Keatley
Tim Holmes
Francis has been with the Board since 2022, having weathered the turbulent times to see the charity reach the point where forward progress for animals is the main focus. Having organised a music festival for three decades before retiring to Ireland, he brings his previous experience of board governance and strategic planning.
Having raised 7 kids who routinely brought home a variety of rescue animals, from injured birds to abandoned kittens and puppies to the occasional goat or lamb, Francis is no stranger to animals in need.