Mel Oley

Mel is Director of Fundraising and Communications at Freedom from Torture.  She has worked in the charity sector for over 20 years in a range of roles, starting her career in direct marketing with Greenpeace UK.  Mel has been in senior leadership positions over the past 6 years, both in her current role and previously as Associate Director of Fundraising with Rethink Mental Illness/Mental Health UK.  Although an individual giving specialist initially, most recently Mel has been responsible for programmes with a full fundraising mix including corporate partnerships, philanthropy, events, trusts and foundations and individual giving.  Mel is also a trustee for Friends of the Earth Charitable Trust.

‘I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to have been supported and informally mentored by others who have inspired me to continue my leadership journey.  I believe that every day is a learning opportunity, no matter whether things go to plan or not and through the Elischer Foundation programme I hope to support future leaders to realise their passions and talents to make a difference.’