SAM Walker has been named as the MS Society’s new Executive Director of Services and Support. 

She joined the charity in August 2017 as Assistant Director of Information and Support. During that time, Sam has been responsible for overseeing the development of the charity’s national services – such as the MS Helpline – to help people live well with multiple sclerosis (MS). She’s been the Interim Executive Director of Services and Support since December.

Before joining the MS Society, Sam was the Chief Officer of Sutton Centre for Independent Living. She’s also held senior roles at the National Trust and Shopmobility. 

The MS Society is here to make life better for people with MS, through research, campaigning and support. Over 130,000 people live with MS in the UK. It damages nerves in your body and makes it harder to do everyday things, like walk, talk, eat and think

Sam said:

“I’m very much looking forward to continuing to work together with our amazing volunteers and colleagues to deliver the best possible services and support for the MS community. The difference a piece of information, a listening ear or good support can make to someone can be life-changing.

“MS and the MS Society have been in my life for many years. My Mum was diagnosed in 1967. In my time at the MS Society, I’ve been fortunate to see first-hand the impact our organisation makes for people affected by MS, from our national services to the support and community provided by our local groups and networks of amazing volunteers.

“The majority of my career working in charities has been focused on shaping services which support and empower people to self-manage. The importance and value of listening to the people who need, want and use services is incomparable. That’s why involving our community in designing and delivering our services is so important to me and something I am looking forward to doing more of.” 

Nick Moberly, Chief Executive of the MS Society, said:

“I am delighted that Sam will be joining our Executive team permanently, after 5 years working at the MS Society. She has a deep personal connection with our cause, and a real passion to ensure we deliver the greatest possible impact for our community.

“Under her leadership, our national services have gone from strength to strength. I have no doubt she is the right person to lead our excellent services and support team on the next stage of our ambitious improvement journey.”

Sam takes over from Ed Holloway who left the MS Society in January to become the Chief Executive Officer at the Bank Workers Charity.