The RSPCA has appointed the former CEO of Relate, Chris Sherwood, as its new chief executive officer.

Sherwood, who has been CEO of the relationship charity since 2015, will take up his new post with the RSPCA on 1 August 2018.

He has 15 years' experience of working in the third sector and joined Relate as director of policy, communications and digital services in 2012.

Prior to that, he worked at Scope as director of innovation and development and at Nesta as senior development manager.

Sherwood also previously worked in Westminster and local government.

Commenting on his appointment, Sherwood said: "It’s a huge honour to be joining the world’s oldest, largest and most influential animal welfare charity. The RSPCA plays a unique and critical role in protecting animals and preventing cruelty.

"I'm excited about the prospect of leading such a well-respected and supported organisation and advancing their mission to create a world that is kinder to animals.

Chair of the charity's trustee recruitment panel, Paul Draycott added: "Chris was appointed after a comprehensive recruitment process with many high calibre candidates.

"Chris has excellent leadership credentials, experience of working in charities that provide crucial services, and a track record of delivering innovative change.

"He presented a strong vision about how the RSPCA can continue to shape the debate about animals in society and how we can develop and maintain services that meet the needs of animals and the people who care for them."

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