Kate Lee's Reasons for Leaving Alzheimer's Society
Kate Lee announced her resignation as Chief Executive of the Alzheimer's Society in early 2025, with her departure taking place that summer. Having led the organisation for five years, Lee stated that it was the 'right time' for a new leader to take over. She expressed pride in the charity's accomplishments during her tenure, which began in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlighted the organisation's advocacy for people affected by dementia. The chair of Alzheimer's Society, Dame Suzi Leather, credited Lee with transforming the charity.
Her Next Career Chapter: Leading the NCVO
Following her departure, Kate Lee was appointed as the new chief executive of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) in August 2025. This move keeps her within the voluntary sector, with a broader focus on supporting and representing the entire sector in England. At NCVO, she is set to lead a strategic review. {Link: This appointment demonstrates that her leaving Alzheimer's Society was a career transition, not a retirement. Third Sector https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/alzheimers-society-chief-executive-step-down/management/article/1908031}
Comparing Kate Lee's Transition and Legacy
| Aspect | Alzheimer's Society (2020-2025) | National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) (2025-) |
|---|---|---|
| Tenure Duration | Five years | Commenced in late 2025 |
| Primary Mission | To support people affected by dementia and advance research | To champion the voluntary sector and lead a strategic review |
| Key Achievements | Led through the pandemic, transformed the organisation, and won 'Large Charity of the Year' award | Tasked with defining NCVO's strategy for the next decade |
| External Context | Managed controversial advertising campaigns and an initial regulatory review | Enters during a pivotal time for the voluntary sector in England |
| Personal Recognition | Awarded an OBE in 2024 for services to the voluntary sector | Acknowledged as an outstanding and proven leader |
Achievements and Challenges During Her Tenure
During her time at Alzheimer's Society, Kate Lee achieved several milestones and navigated challenges:
- Leading through the Pandemic: She guided the charity through the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continued support for those affected by dementia.
- Financial Growth: The charity's income increased during her tenure.
- Improving Culture: She focused on improving the workplace culture, leading to recognition as a 'Best Places to Work'.
- Campaigns: She oversaw public campaigns, including the 'Long Goodbye'.
- Personal Motivation: Her work was influenced by her personal experience with dementia in her family.
Conclusion
{Link: Kate Lee's departure from Alzheimer's Society was a planned move based on her belief that it was the appropriate time for a leadership change. Third Sector https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/alzheimers-society-chief-executive-step-down/management/article/1908031}. Her subsequent appointment as CEO of NCVO demonstrates a strategic career progression within the voluntary sector. Her legacy at Alzheimer's Society includes guiding the organisation through the pandemic, improving its financial standing and culture, and launching significant campaigns. The reasons for her leaving were not related to negative factors but to a deliberate decision to transition to a new leadership opportunity.
Kate Lee OBE Appointed as New Chief Executive | NCVO
