Havens Hospices is delighted to announce that Louise Bryan has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer on a permanent basis, following her role as Interim CEO since April 2025.

Louise joined Havens Hospices as Finance Director in December 2022 and brings extensive leadership experience in both finance and strategic development. A qualified FCCA with a degree in accountancy and finance, Louise has held senior finance roles across a range of commercial industries. During her time as Finance Director at Havens Hospices, she has played a pivotal role in financial planning and sustainability, and has been instrumental in developing the charity’s Deficit Action Plan to protect vital hospice services across Essex.

Since stepping into the Interim CEO role in April 2025, Louise has provided strong leadership during a period of significant change for the organisation and the wider hospice sector.

At a meeting last week, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved Louise’s appointment as the permanent CEO of Havens Hospices.

Liz Mell, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “Over the past nine months in her interim role, Louise has led with clarity, compassion, and a deep commitment to Havens Hospices’ new Purpose and Values. She has provided stability during a challenging period, built on the strong foundations already in place, strengthened key relationships and governance, and helped us begin shaping the conversations that will define Havens Hospices’ future strategy.

“Through her expert work on the Deficit Action Plan and being a leading voice to campaign for fairer funding, Louise is creating a framework to secure the future of Havens Hospices as we enter our next strategic cycle next year.

“The Trustees are united in our belief that Louise is the right person to lead the organisation into its next phase, guided by the findings of our Revisioning Project, which was shaped by the very community we are here to serve.”

Louise Bryan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive of Havens Hospices. Leading an organisation whose purpose – making every day count with expert, compassionate hospice care – is something I’m truly passionate about.

“Having worked as Finance Director before taking on the interim CEO role in April 2025, I’ve seen firsthand what makes Havens Hospices so special – the dedication of our colleagues and volunteers who work tirelessly to support the babies, children and adults we care for across Essex.

“Together, we’ve shaped the charity’s future strategic direction, and I’m excited to implement it in the months and years ahead. My experience as Finance Director has given me a clear understanding of the challenges ahead, and I’m passionate about securing the future for Havens Hospices and the wider hospice sector. I remain committed to pushing for fair, sustainable funding for the long-term that will protect the expert care families depend on and ensure we can continue to be there when it matters most.

“What drives me is the care we provide – whether that’s supporting a family to spend the precious time they have left together or helping people to have their final moments in peace and dignity. Working alongside our incredible local community and supporters, I’m committed to ensuring we can continue delivering the compassionate, expert care that everyone deserves when the end of life is in sight. I couldn’t be prouder to lead this organisation into its next chapter.”

Louise will continue in her role as permanent Chief Executive with immediate effect.

Published 4th February 2026