Alzheimer’s Society appoints new chief executive

Jeremy Hughes, currently Chief Executive of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, has been appointed as the new chief executive of Alzheimer’s Society, it was announced today.

Making the announcement this morning, Alastair Balls, chair of Alzheimer’s Society said,
‘This is a critical time for the Society as we implement government sponsored dementia strategies.  Jeremy will provide the insight, leadership, campaigning skills, commitment and energy to drive this forward successfully.’

‘Jeremy Hughes has been at Breakthrough Breast Cancer for over five years, during which time it has become a recognised world leader in breast cancer research as well as a powerful influence on the NHS, ensuring better treatment for women regardless of where they live. This experience was particularly attractive to the board of Alzheimer’s Society as it continues to grow in both size and influence.

‘Alzheimer’s Society helps people live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow.  Both elements of this work are critical to defeating dementia.  Jeremy has the right skills and experience for us to achieve our goal.’

Commenting, Jeremy Hughes said, ‘I look forward to working closely with all involved with Alzheimer’s Society to meet the challenges of the new decade. Everyone must play their part, to ensure that people living with dementia have better prospects in 2020 than today.

‘I will be sad to leave Breakthrough, where it has been a privilege to steward the energy, enthusiasm, expertise and commitment of scientists, advocates, supporters and all the team at Breakthrough. Our vision of a future free from the fear of breast cancer could have been seen as a long term aspiration. Today that is no longer the case: it is now very achievable.’

Jeremy has also been instrumental in establishing National Voices, the umbrella body for over 200 health and social care charities, and currently is its Chair.

Paying tribute to Jeremy for his work at Breakthrough, chair of trustees Stephanie Monk said, ‘Everyone involved with Breakthrough will want to pay tribute to Jeremy, an excellent ambassador and enthusiastic promoter of our cause. His strategic stewardship and energetic commitment, brought real progress in realising the vision of a future free from the fear of breast cancer. We wish him well and confidently look forward to the next exciting chapter in Breakthrough’s unique contribution for people affected by breast cancer.’