Guide Dogs fundraising and commercial director Maria Novell has been appointed to lead fundraising and communications at Marie Curie.

Novell will leave her role at Guide Dogs in November after 14 years and starts as chief fundraising, communications and marketing officer at Marie Curie in December.

She replaces the end-of-life charity’s interim executive director of fundraising and engagement Nicky Bishop.

“Maria's strong experience and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and build towards a better future, where everyone has the best possible end of life care and experience,” said Marie Curie chief executive Matthew Reed.

Novell added: “I have long admired the vital care and support that Marie Curie provides to people at the end of life and was hugely impressed by the way the charity responded during the pandemic.

“Everyone at end of life deserves the best possible experience and I look forward to working with the executive leadership team to deliver an ambitious new strategy and with the hugely talented team in fundraising, communications, marketing and digital to increase the brand profile, be a leading voice on dying, death and bereavement, and grow sustainable income streams."

During her time at Guide Dogs, Novell oversaw a doubling of its income and campaigns such as Sponsor A Puppy.

“Maria has been one of the most successful fundraisers in the sector over the last decade,” said Guide Dogs chief executive Tom Wright.

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