​Beccy Speight joins from the Woodland Trust

One of the UK’s biggest environmental charities has appointed a new chief executive.

The RSPB has appointed Beccy Speight to the position, taking over from Mike Clarke, who is stepping down after 30 years with the charity, the past nine as CEO.

She will leave the same role at the Woodland Trust, where she has been since 2014.

The fight to save nature has never been more important

Beccy Speight

Previously, she had spent 14 years at the National Trust, some of that as a regional director.

The RSPB said Speight had led a period of refocus and expansion at the Woodland Trust and helped grow income by more than 35%.

Speight said: "The fight to save nature has never been more important and the RSPB is uniquely positioned to make a difference.

"This is an interesting and challenging time for the charity. I'm looking forward to getting started in my role and helping to lead our great contribution."

Kevin Cox, RSPB chair, added: "The organisation has undergone a period of significant change over the past year and Beccy’s outstanding track record, personal qualities and commitment to the cause of nature conservation will ensure the charity continues to move forward with confidence."

Speight is due to take up her post by the end of the summer.