Meet our CEO, Heather Weir
Heather brings over 25 years of senior leadership experience across the health, social care, and charity sectors, including her role as CEO of NI Hospice, one of Northern Ireland’s largest healthcare charities. She holds an MSc in Executive Leadership (with Distinction) and is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, with additional qualifications from the Institute of Directors, ILM, and Common Purpose. Recognised by both IoD and CO3, Heather is widely respected for her integrity, professionalism, and dedication to high-quality care.
A lifelong animal lover and experienced foster carer for rescued dogs, Heather has a deep personal commitment to animal welfare. She also serves on the Ulster Rugby Branch and is a trustee of the Ulster Rugby Foundation.
“It’s an honour to lead the USPCA, an organisation I’ve long admired for its unwavering dedication to animal welfare. I take great pride in working alongside fellow advocates who rescue, treat, and rehabilitate vulnerable animals every day. Seeing the transformation that care and compassion can bring is inspiring and I’m committed to building on the USPCA’s legacy, ensuring that every animal in need has a voice.”
Management team
Siobhan McHaffie
Tara Kerr
Chris Vance
Deirdre McArdle
Emma Neill
Nikkita Heywood
