Former nurse and animal foster carer appointed CEO of Newry-based animal rescue
A former nurse and current animal foster carer of rescued dogs is the new CEO of Newry-based animal rescue, USPCA.
Heather Weir has just been appointed to the animal welfare charity and brings over two decades of strategic and operational leadership experience to the USPCA.
Heather began her career as a Registered Nurse in 1993 and has since held senior clinical and leadership roles across the Health and Social Care and Charity sectors for over 25 years.
In 2024, she stepped down from her role as Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Hospice, which has grown to be one of NI’s leading charities, providing specialist pallative care to 4,000 patients every year.
She holds an MSc in Executive Leadership (with Distinction) and is a strong advocate for lifelong learning.
Her professional development includes the Institute of Directors (loD) Certificate in Company Direction, ILM Executive Coaching and Mentoring, and the Common Purpose Global Leaders Programme.
Heather has been recognised for her leadership by both the IoD and Chief Officers 3rd Sector (CO3) and is widely respected for her integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to ensuring high-quality care for those in need.
Heather’s lifelong passion for both people and animals is deeply rooted in her personal values. Raised in a home full of dogs and having cared for pets throughout her life, she became a foster carer for rescued dogs in recent years.
This hands-on experience has given her firsthand insight into the suffering many animals face, as well as the remarkable transformation that love, care, and patience can bring.
Many of the dogs she has fostered have gone on to find permanent, loving homes.
Outside of her professional life, Heather is passionate about sport, particularly rugby and open water swimming. She serves on the Ulster Rugby Branch and is a Trustee of the Ulster Rugby Foundation.
A year-round swimmer, she can often be found in the sea along the coastline at weekends. Heather is married to Alex and is a devoted dog mum to Lena and Darcey, and a proud “grand pup” mum to Winnie and Bear, who belong to her son James and daughter-in-law Emma.
Speaking about her appointment Heather said: “It’s an honour to lead the USPCA, an organisation I’ve long admired for its unwavering dedication to animal welfare.
“I take great pride in working alongside fellow advocates who rescue, treat, and rehabilitate vulnerable animals every day.
“Seeing the transformation that care and compassion can bring is inspiring and I’m committed to building on the USPCA’s legacy, ensuring that every animal in need has a voice.”