The Armed Forces Equine Charity (AFEC) has appointed Dame Sue Gray as its new chief executive, marking a significant transition for the organisation as it continues to expand equine-based recovery and rehabilitation programmes for serving personnel, veterans and their families.
The charity, which operates through a network of equestrian centres across the UK, uses structured interaction with horses to support confidence-building, emotional regulation and long-term recovery. Its work ranges from equine sport and recreation to targeted rehabilitation and learning programmes delivered in partnership with clinicians and community organisations.
Dame Sue succeeds founding CEO Jamie, who established the charity five years ago. The AFEC board said his leadership had created a strong foundation on which the next phase of the charity’s development would be built.
In taking up the role, Dame Sue said she was honoured to lead the organisation and highlighted the importance of ensuring continuity as AFEC broadens access to its programmes.
Major General (Retired) Robert Talbot Rice CBE, chair of trustees, described Dame Sue as a well-placed successor who would continue strengthening the charity’s support for the Armed Forces community.
