Board of Trustees

Gavin Whigham – Board Chair (interim)

Gavin has 30 years experience in the construction and facilities management industries, leading construction teams in the social housing, animal welfare and college/university sectors. Beginning his career as an apprentice joiner maintaining council housing stock, Gavin moved his career away from the tools and is currently a Director of Estates leading the maintenance and refurbishment at college campus. 

In his spare time Gavin enjoys travelling and exploring new places, photography, and walking with his Cocker Spaniel. 

Spencer Harris – Vice Chair

Spencer is a passionate fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience in the charity sector. He brings a strong track record of success in income generation, donor relationship management, and volunteer engagement, whilst currently working as a Community Manager for the RNLI. He also brings experience in philanthropic fundraising, securing major grants, cultivating corporate partnerships, and implementing effective fundraising strategies. He’s passionate about animal welfare and a proud rescue cat owner (Sebastian & Jacob!). He brings both professional expertise and personal dedication to supporting Borders Pet Rescue.

Gemma Lockie – Board Treasurer 

Gemma qualified as an Accountant (ACCA) in 2011 and has worked in a variety of accounting roles over her 20-year career with Plexus Corp (UK) Limited and more recently with the NHS.

Gemma has had an interest in Border Pet Rescue for over 10 years since adopting her cat Poppy from the Centre and seeing the good work that the charity does. Outwith work, Gemma enjoys hillwalking, stand-up comedy, and watching football.
Gemma joined the board in March 2023.

Richard Keeling – Board Member

Richard studied Zoology at Glasgow University and then spent ten years as a British army officer, on leaving he set up a storage and logistics company and then spent another ten years sailing all over the world on a wide variety of vessels and along the way became a commercial yachtmaster and instructor. 

In 2016 Richard set up a coffee company in 2016 with his (now) wife, this company occupies most of his time.

Erika Sablinskaite – Board Member

With over ten years of experience in marketing and advertising, Erika has worked extensively with public sector and corporate client brands. She has a proven track record in product, brand and behaviour change marketing and strategy development, demonstrating strong stakeholder management skills. Erika is highly skilled in leading complex projects, negotiating and motivating teams. 

 Erika is currently employed with Scottish Government, as a Senior Marketing Manager leading on climate behaviour change campaigns. 

 Having grown up surrounded by animals she is a passionate advocate for animal welfare and enjoys contributing their expertise and dedication to their trustee role. In her free time Erika is out walking with her whippet friend Forest.