The chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society is to step down after five years in the role. 

Kate Lee said it was the right time for her to stand aside and “allow someone new to have the privilege” of leading the dementia charity.

The Alzheimer’s Society said Lee had transformed the charity during her time in the role and had created an “inclusive, collaborative environment”. 

Asked what Lee planned to do next, a spokesperson for the Alzheimer’s Society said: “Kate is going to take some time to consider what she wants her next move to be but will ensure a smooth transition to the next chief executive.”

Lee, who is expected to leave the charity in the summer, said the decision to step down was not one she had taken lightly. 

“It will be incredibly difficult to leave this amazing organisation but now feels like the right time to step aside and allow someone new to have the privilege of leading the charity.

“I’m so proud of how far we’ve come in the last five years. When I arrived back in March 2020, no one could see what people with dementia were set to face. 

“We advocated tirelessly for people with dementia, and those who love and care for them, throughout the pandemic. That period tested the organisation to its core, and I take great pride in the work we delivered.”  

She spent five years in both of her previous charity chief executive roles, at Myton Hospices and Clic Sargent (now Young Lives vs Cancer).

Dame Suzi Leather, chair of the Alzheimer’s Society, said Lee had made “an enduring contribution to the organisation and to the world of dementia”. 

Leather said: “I’ve enjoyed working with her enormously and the board and I want to thank her for the leadership she’s provided, from leading through the pandemic to transforming it to an organisation that is leading the way for people with dementia, now and for the future. 

The Alzheimer’s Society was named Large Charity of the Year at the Third Sector Awards in 2024. 

Listen to last month’s interview with Kate Lee on the Third Sector podcast here.