Dr Douglas Graham joins Action Medical Research as Chief Executive, bringing more than 25 years’ experience in charity leadership, fundraising and biomedical research. 

Action Medical Research is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Douglas Graham as its new Chief Executive, following the retirement of Julie Buckler earlier this year after 17 years leading the charity. 

Douglas brings more than 25 years’ experience in leadership, fundraising and the charity sector, alongside a strong commitment in biomedical research. Originally trained as a research scientist, he holds a PhD from the University of Glasgow. 

Most recently, Douglas was Chief Executive of Oxford Hospitals Charity, where he helped develop the charity into a strategic partner of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, supporting clinical areas and medical research. His previous roles include Director of Fundraising at the Motor Neurone Disease Association, as well as senior leadership positions at the British Heart Foundation and Oxfam. 

Douglas said: “I’m honoured to be joining Action Medical Research, a charity with such a proud history of funding vital research to save and change children’s lives. I’d also like to thank Kabba Njie, Director of Finance, IT & Operations, for expertly leading the charity as interim Chief Executive over the past six months and for warmly welcoming me into this role.” 

Douglas joins Action Medical Research as the charity continues its work to fund life-changing medical research for babies, children and young people.