Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Charmaine Brett, a recruitment led by Nick Chambers
Stouffville, ON - May 29, 2025
Respected global animal welfare and humanitarian leader to lead the organization into its next chapter
After a search that spanned North America, Charmaine Brett has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer and President of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, starting September 8, 2025.
“Charmaine is joining us at a crucial moment for the Ontario SPCA as we deepen our impact across the province, continue to champion animal well-being through community-based care and deal with the impact of a shortage of veterinarian services,” said Renata D’Innocenzo, Chair of the Board of Directors.
Charmaine brings more than 20 years of global non-profit leadership, spanning animal welfare, humanitarian response and community-led development. Prior to her role at Veterinarians Without Borders, she held senior leadership positions with organizations including Doctors Without Borders, Action Against Hunger, Habitat for Humanity and the Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies—one of the largest private foundations in the United States. Her work has consistently focused on improving lives through locally driven, sustainable solutions across health, housing, and humanitarian sectors.
Most recently, Charmaine served as Executive Director of Veterinarians Without Borders North America, a registered charity in both Canada and the United States. Under her leadership, the organization significantly expanded its reach across more than 13 countries and continues to be an active member of VSF International, a global network working in 55 countries to improve the health of animals, people and the environment.
Charmaine is widely recognized for her leadership in emergency response, having directed complex operations in Ukraine, Turkey and wildfire-affected regions of British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Northern Ontario. Her ability to respond with clarity, compassion, and coordination during times of crisis has earned her strong respect across the animal welfare and humanitarian sectors.
In Canada, she has led efforts to increase access to veterinary care in remote and underserved communities, particularly through her work with Indigenous partners in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. Through mobile clinics, education initiatives and the introduction of innovative models such as tele-triage, she has helped build more sustainable systems of care for animals in hard-to-reach regions.
“I am honoured to join the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society at such a pivotal time for animal welfare,” said Charmaine Brett. “Across Ontario, there is an incredible opportunity to strengthen local partnerships, support underserved communities, and build a future where every animal receives the care they deserve. I’m excited to work alongside this dedicated team and all those who make this mission possible.”
Based in Ontario, Charmaine shares her home with her two children and a lively crew of rescue pets. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, equity, and a belief in the power of community to drive meaningful change.
Original Source: Ontario SPCA and Humane Society News
