Tue 16 Sept 2025

Gareth Howells Appointed New CEO of Tenovus Cancer Care as Judi Rhys Steps Down

Tenovus Cancer Care is proud to announce the appointment of Gareth Howells as its new Chief Executive, following the departure of Judi Rhys MBE in September.

Gareth Howells will join the charity in November, bringing over 15 years’ leadership experience across health, social care, and the voluntary sector.

Since 2021, Gareth worked at TuVida, a national charity supporting unpaid carers and people with care needs across England and Wales. Under his leadership as CEO, TuVida strengthened its financial sustainability, expanded services into Wales, and built a values-led culture that puts people first.

Previously, Gareth served as CEO of Carers Trust, the UK’s national charity for unpaid carers. He led the creation of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Young Carers, secured Welsh Government investment to establish the national Short Breaks Fund for Wales, and oversaw a rebrand that modernised the charity’s image and increased its reach.

He says:

“I am honoured to be joining Tenovus Cancer Care, an organisation with such a powerful mission and a meaningful track record of impact. I look forward to working with the team, volunteers, and supporters to build on Judi’s legacy and ensure that everyone affected by cancer in Wales gets the support and care they need.”

Gareth’s connection to Tenovus Cancer Care is deeply personal. His mother was supported by the charity during breast cancer treatment 25 years ago, at a time when he also became a young carer. He lives in South Wales with his family and is active in his local community, running men’s mental health and sports groups and volunteering at his son’s school.

Judi, who leaves in September, joined the charity in 2019 following a distinguished career in the third sector. She has led the organisation with vision, energy, and a strong commitment to tackling cancer inequalities across Wales.

Judi was awarded an MBE in 2021 for her outstanding contribution to the voluntary sector.

Reflecting on her time at the charity, Judi said:

“It has been an enormous privilege to lead Tenovus Cancer Care and to work alongside such a dedicated team. Together, we have championed the needs of people living with cancer and delivered tangible changes that will benefit communities across Wales for years to come. I’m confident the organisation is in a strong position to keep building on this progress.”

Chair of Trustees, Tracey Burke, added:

“We are deeply grateful to Judi for her exceptional leadership and the transformative progress achieved under her tenure. We are delighted to welcome Gareth, whose experience, passion, and vision will ensure Tenovus Cancer Care continues to make a real difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.”

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