Little Valley welcomed Ruth Lowe as our new Chief Executive this summer, joining us at an exciting time of change and development for our charity.
With 15 years’ experience at Age UK, a passion for animal welfare and plenty of experience leading people and organisations through change, Ruth brings a wealth of knowledge to Little Valley.
We caught up with Ruth to find out more about the person behind our new CEO – from what attracted her to Little Valley and her hopes for our future, to the very important matter of Pacey, her much-loved golden Labrador.
I’ve spent the last 15 years working for Age UK, most recently in the senior leadership team, leading national loneliness and friendship services supporting thousands of older people.
Although my background has been supporting people, the principles are very similar to those at Little Valley – compassion, high standards of care, dignity and improving quality of life. I’ve also learnt a lot about leading people, managing change and keeping an organisation’s mission at its heart.
I moved to Devon for Age UK and feel very lucky to call it home. Outside work, I’m happiest on the moors or beach with my dog Pacey.
It’s always been important that my work is something I’m passionate about, and animal welfare means a huge amount to me. Making a difference motivates me, and Little Valley immediately felt like something I wanted to be part of.
There was something special about Little Valley itself. It has an important role in the community and is already doing amazing work, while having so much potential to develop and grow.
I’m particularly excited about our improved facilities and The Warren, our new purpose-built rabbitry, and what they will allow us to do for animals and our community.
The biggest thing is my experience of leading people and organisations through change. I’ve led large-scale services involving thousands of staff and volunteers and a service through a major charity merger during the pandemic. That taught me a lot about keeping people motivated, supported and focused during challenging times.
I try to lead in a way that is honest, open, compassionate and grounded in integrity. I care deeply about doing things well and delivering the best for the animals we serve.
I also bring experience of retail, partnerships, volunteering and fundraising. Ultimately, leadership is about bringing people together around a shared purpose.
Little Valley’s tagline is ‘Little Valley – Big Heart’, and that’s honestly exactly what I’ve found.
I’ve been so impressed by the passion and commitment people bring to their work, whatever their role. From our retail volunteers and Animal Care Assistants to our outreach work and brilliant supporters, everyone keeps animals at the heart of what they do.
Spending time in the shelter has been a particular highlight. The standards of care and animal welfare are amazing, and the compassion, kindness and dedication of our people really stands out.
Absolutely! I’ve always been a huge animal lover and I’m passionate about animal welfare, particularly preventing suffering and cruelty.
We often see the world through a human lens, and one of the most important things we can do is try to see the world from an animal’s perspective. We have enormous power over the animals we share our lives with, which brings a real responsibility to understand and respect their needs.
I also believe compassion shouldn’t depend on how cute an animal is or how much we relate to them. Every animal is an individual and deserves dignity and respect. That’s something I really value about Little Valley.
Pacey is such an important part of my life. My walk with him every morning before work grounds me and helps me remember what’s important. I love the joy he takes from simple things and his endless capacity for love.
He’s also a reminder that caring for an animal isn’t always easy. It can be challenging and expensive, and it’s a big responsibility. But it’s absolutely worth it for what you get back.
Living with Pacey for the last five years has deepened my love of animals and makes me even more determined to ensure Little Valley is here for as many animals as possible.
I’m really enjoying getting to know the people who make Little Valley what it is – our staff, volunteers, trustees, supporters and, of course, the animals.
I want to listen and understand what people think we do brilliantly and where we could do even better. I’m also building my knowledge of shelter and animal care and am lucky to have so many people here with huge expertise to learn from.
I’m particularly excited about our developing site and what the new facilities will mean for our animals and community.
There are some really exciting opportunities ahead. Little Valley has so much going for it – a wonderful history, strong local identity and people who really care about what we do. Now we need to build on all of that and ensure we’re strong and sustainable for the future.
Our new facilities will improve the environment for animals while allowing us to welcome people back and showcase more of our work.
We can also grow and diversify our income, develop partnerships and make the most of our shops and wonderful supporters. We can be ambitious while protecting what makes Little Valley special.
I’d love Little Valley to become an even more visible and trusted source of support for animals and their owners across Devon.
We’re already doing brilliant outreach work, and I’d love us to reach more people earlier. The more we can help before problems arise, the more we can prevent animals reaching crisis point.
I’d also like to develop our education work, particularly with young people. Helping children understand animals and how to treat them with kindness and respect can help prevent cruelty and neglect.
By working with other organisations and sharing expertise, we can make an even greater difference across Devon.
A massive thank you for all you do for us. We simply couldn’t do our work without your support, and the difference you make to animals every day is huge.
It’s been a while since we’ve welcomed visitors because of the building work, so we can’t wait to open our doors again and show you the work your support makes possible.
Most of all, I’m looking forward to meeting many of you, hearing your stories and listening to your thoughts. Little Valley has a special place in Devon, and I’m excited to work with you to help even more animals who need us.
