The Wilderness Foundation UK is pleased to announce the appointment of James Davey as its new Chief Executive Officer, taking up the role after our AGM and Board Meeting scheduled for 25 June 2026 .
James brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience across international NGOs, where he has guided organisations through growth, operational strengthening, and complex transitions. His career blends strategic oversight with practical delivery in challenging environments, alongside a longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship.
Most recently, James served in senior roles at the Danish Refugee Council, including Head of Commercial Contracts & Fund Management and Head of Operational Contracts & Grants. He provided global oversight of diverse funding portfolios, strengthened compliance and reporting systems, and supported the organisation’s expansion into new funding and fund‑management models.
Earlier in his career, James held Country Director and Interim Country Director positions with Concern Worldwide in Tanzania and Malawi. He led strategic planning, built high‑performing senior management teams, and expanded programmes through strong donor relationships and effective partnerships. He also chaired sector‑level coordination bodies, bringing together civil society, donors, and commercial actors to influence policy and practice.
James succeeds Jo Roberts, who steps down after 28 years of service to the Foundation, as CEO since 2003, and originally as a full time volunteer. Under Jo’s leadership, the Foundation has grown into a nationally respected organisation supporting thousands of young people and beneficiaries to build resilience, confidence, and mental wellbeing through nature‑based interventions; building pro-environmental ethics and behaviours through outdoor education programmes; and actively conserving wild nature through the purchase of 92 acre Mann Wood -a major highlight of her years at the Foundation. Jo will continue to play a vital role as Clinical Lead, ensuring the continued strength and integrity of the Foundation’s therapeutic programmes and approach.
Vincent Thompson, Chairman, said:
“James brings exceptional leadership experience, strategic insight, and a deep alignment with our mission. We are delighted to welcome him as CEO and profoundly grateful to Jo for her extraordinary contribution over nearly three decades. Her legacy is woven into every aspect of the Foundation’s work and will be celebrated at our 50th anniversary later this year.
The Trustees selected James from a strong field on the basis of the breadth of his experience, his commitment to nature and people, his understanding of the link between open space and mental health, his vision for the future of the Wilderness Foundation UK, and his empathetic personality.
We are grateful to Oxford HR for their assistance in this matter. As evidenced by our selection, their understanding of our space and their international reach were of key importance.”
James Davey said:
“I am honoured to join the Wilderness Foundation UK and to build on the remarkable work led by Jo Roberts. Supporting young people to thrive through connection with nature has never been more important, and I look forward to working with the team and partners to grow our impact.”
Jo Roberts said:
“I am proud of all that has been achieved since first joining this remarkable organisation and hand on a great team and environment to grow in James’ capable hands. Staying involved to support his leadership of the next phase of the Foundation will be a pleasure.”
The Wilderness Foundation UK remains committed to delivering life‑changing programmes that work with nature to empower young people facing adversity, and to care for the planet through environmental education and conservation programmes.”
