Ross Macfadyen has been appointed by Trustees as the new CEO of Edinburgh based charity Dog Aid Society of Scotland (DASS). Ross takes up his role with DASS this month following a varied career in the charity sector. He has held senior Director roles with RNIB, Leonard Cheshire Disability and more recently Bipolar Scotland.
Prior to moving into the charity sector, Ross had a successful career in the private sector as a broadcaster and Director with Radio Clyde in Glasgow. Over the years he has continued in radio with Real Radio and BBC Radio Scotland.
In 2006 Ross moved from private sector media to join RNIB and set up the award winning radio station RNIB Connect which continues to broadcast across the UK on the Freeview platform. Over the years he was appointed as a non-executive director of Hansel Foundation in Ayr, British Wireless for the Blind Fund based in Kent and has been close to the charity sector from an early age. His professional broadcasting was the result of many years of voluntary work in hospital radio before “getting the call” from Radio Clyde.
Ross Macfadyen joins Dog Aid Society of Scotland on 16 May 2022.
Dog Aid Society of Scotland’s reach and impact has grown in its 65 years and remains committed to finding loving new homes for dogs which cannot be maintained in their present homes and which might otherwise be euthanased. DASS also provides information on every aspect of dog ownership and can provide Veterinary Aid for those in financial need. Dog Aid Society of Scotland’s Neutering Vouchers scheme also helps reduce the number of unwanted dogs and the Society’s Dog Fouling project has proven a great success since its inception back in 2001.
“I am delighted to be joining Dog Aid Society of Scotland as its first chief executive and feel privileged to have been appointed to lead this exceptional charity,” said Ross. “I am passionate about making a difference to people’s lives and that extends to providing help and support where their pets are concerned. As a nation of pet lovers, it’s imperative that we all do what we can to look after animals and seek the guidance and services of organisations like DASS when appropriate. No animal should be denied the proper treatment and care for any reason – be it ability, willingness or money.
“I love the work Dog Aid Society of Scotland does and look forward to working with the small but dedicated team to do more across the whole of Scotland.”
Margery Bruce, chair of Trustees, said: “The Trustees are delighted that Ross will be leading the charity. Ross’s successes speak for themselves. His passion, drive, skills, charity and business experience will be a huge asset as we look to build on the achievements of Dog Aid Society Scotland in recent years.
“While a huge amount has been achieved, we want to make an even bigger difference to the ongoing health and well-being of dogs and the awareness of how important it is for dog owners to seek help and guidance when needed. Ross will be integral to realising that vision and the whole Board and staff team look forward to working with him.”