Animal welfare non-profit World Animal Protection has appointed Tricia Croasdell as its next Global Chief Executive Officer, making her the first female leader in the charity’s 74-year-old history.
As the current United Kingdom Country Director, Croasdell joined World Animal Protection in September 2022 from World Wildlife Fund (WWF) where she orchestrated global initiatives for institutional funding.
Her career also includes working in various government departments for over 12 years, with stints at 10 Downing Street and head of communications at NATO and foreign affairs.
“As the first female CEO of World Animal Protection, I am deeply committed to amplifying all the voices within the animal advocacy community,” Croasdell said of her appointment.
“I know that through collective action we can change the world for animals and create a future where every animal is treated with respect. Benefiting all animals, but also benefiting us and our planet.”
Croasdell has roots in South Africa but currently lives with her partner Dawn and their two dogs in Hertfordshire.
“Growing up in South Africa, I have seen how people, through collective action, can change the world. I know that by working together, with our supporters and activists globally, we will transform the lives of animals, while also benefiting people and the planet,” said Croasdell.
World Animal Protection chair Joanna Kerr said that Croasdell was chosen as the charity’s next leader following a “global and rigorous recruitment process”.
“The board is very much looking forward to working with this visionary and energetic leader, campaigner and changemaker to advance our people-powered campaigns to move the world to protect animals,” said Kerr.
As Croasdell is set to take over from Steve McIvor on 1 July, the organisation has described her appointment as “a vibrant new era” and says she’s “setting the stage for impactful change in the world of animal welfare”.