Matt joins the organisation at a pivotal time, stepping in to lead The Brain Charity following the departure of former CEO Pippa Sargent in 2025.

As CEO, Matt will shape the organisation’s long-term strategic direction, whilst maintaining the Charity’s ongoing growth and stability.

Matt Meaney brings extensive leadership experience. Stepping away from his role as Head of Fundraising at Zoe’s Place after six years, he is expected to begin as CEO of The Brain Charity on 20th April 2026.

This won’t be Matt’s first time leading a charitable organisation, having previously served as Wirral Mencap’s Chief Executive Officer from 2018 to 2020.

Chair of Trustees for The Brain Charity, Professor Emeritus Gus Baker, has said:

“The Board of Trustees and I are delighted to appoint Matt Meaney as the next Chief Executive of The Brain Charity. This marks an important moment for the Charity; at a time when demand for our services continues to grow, it is vital that we have leadership that understands both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with supporting people living with neurological conditions.

“Matt brings significant experience from across the voluntary sector and impressed the Board with his thoughtful approach, collaborative spirit and commitment to our mission. I look forward to working with him as we guide the Charity through its next stage of development.”

Incoming CEO Matt Meaney has said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to join The Brain Charity. From my first conversations with the team and my visit to the centre, it was clear what a special place this is—full of passion, expertise and a genuine commitment to improving people’s lives. I’m really looking forward to getting started, meeting more of the community we support, and working together to grow the Charity’s reach and impact in the years ahead.”

Under Matt’s leadership, The Brain Charity will continue to focus on sustainable growth, empowering the organisation in its mission to ensure impactful service provision to as many people as possible, now and into the future.

The Brain Charity team is confident that his vision and leadership will further strengthen the Charity’s position as an organisation of impact in inclusion and support for anyone in our society affected by a neurological condition.