Chief Executive Lesley Jones to retire in October

Our Chief Executive Lesley Jones will be stepping down from her role this October after 12 years at the helm.

Since 2010, Lesley has successfully championed initiatives to create and protect green spaces including Local Places for Nature, Long Forest, Tiny Forest and Green Flag for Parks. She has also been the driving force behind the Caru Cymru movement – our biggest ever initiative to eradicate litter and waste. Lesley said:

It has been a privilege to be CEO of Keep Wales Tidy over the last very enjoyable and fulfilling twelve years. I have learned so much and met so many wonderful people along the way. The commitment and passion of the staff team has been inspiring and throughout my time here I have had constant support from our Trustees in meeting challenges and taking on new initiatives. Much has been achieved working together as a team and in partnership with others. We have made a positive difference for many people and our precious environment.

Lesley will be retiring from full time work to spend more time with her family and her beloved dog Ruby. However, she will continue as president of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a role she has held since 2016. Under Lesley’s leadership, FEE programmes including Eco-Schools, Blue Flag and Green Key (for tourism) have grown both globally and across Wales.

Lesley added:

As Keep Wales Tidy enters its 50th year, the time is right for me to hand over the baton. I will miss leading this wonderful organisation, but I know Keep Wales Tidy will continue with the great and important work it does.

On behalf of the Board and the entire team at Keep Wales Tidy, the Chair, Ed Evans said:

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Lesley for her outstanding contribution over the past 12 years. Her passion and commitment have enabled Keep Wales Tidy to thrive, making a huge difference to our environment and communities across the country. The Board, staff and volunteers will do our absolute best to build on Lesley’s legacy. I’m sure we will find the right person to help us achieve this and cement our reputation as a leading environmental charity.

Join us and help Keep Wales Tidy

We are now recruiting for a new Chief Executive. Do you have the qualities, skills and experience to lead an ambitious and trusted charity? If you share our vision of a beautiful Wales cared for and enjoyed by everyone, we would love to receive your application to join us.

Apply to become our new Chief Executive