Neuroendocrine Cancer UK today announces that Catherine Bouvier Ellis, its Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, will be stepping down from her role on October 8, 2025, after two decades of transformative leadership and unwavering dedication to the neuroendocrine cancer community.
As the first dedicated neuroendocrine cancer nurse specialist in the UK, and a founding force behind the establishment of the UK’s first and only charity dedicated to neuroendocrine cancer, Catherine has devoted the past 20 years to improving the care and outcomes for patients living with this complex and often overlooked cancer. Under her leadership, Neuroendocrine Cancer UK has grown from a grassroots organisation to a respected national charity and a powerful voice within the global neuroendocrine cancer community.
Catherine also served as President of the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA), advocating for the neuroendocrine cancer community on an international scale.
Her work has driven increased research, awareness, and systemic change both in the UK and abroad.
Reflecting on her time at Neuroendocrine Cancer UK, Catherine said:
“It has been an immense privilege to serve this extraordinary community. From the very beginning, my mission has been to give voice to people affected by neuroendocrine cancer and to work towards a healthcare system that sees, hears, and supports them fully. I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I know the work will continue with even greater momentum. To have played a part in shaping Neuroendocrine Cancer UK and witnessing its impact on so many lives has been the most rewarding experience of my career.”
We are delighted to announce that Lisa Walker will be stepping into the role. Bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge from her time within the charity, Lisa will lead Neuroendocrine Cancer UK through its next chapter, driving forward its mission and continuing to support patients and families across the UK.
Lisa brings over 20 years’ experience from various organisations within the healthcare space, including co-founding and leading a charity supporting people with Crohn’s disease.
Lisa has worked at Neuroendocrine Cancer UK for over three years and brings a deep passion for improving the lives and outcomes of neuroendocrine cancer patients. Her commitment to Neuroendocrine Cancer UK’s vision is rooted in personal experience, giving her a genuine understanding of the challenges people face.
Since joining Neuroendocrine Cancer UK, Lisa has made a significant impact towards the charity’s mission: raising awareness of neuroendocrine cancer among non-specialist healthcare professionals equipping them with the knowledge to recognise and act on signs of neuroendocrine cancer, increasing engagement with the community and enhancing research initiatives.
Lisa reflects, “I’m incredibly proud and excited to be leading Neuroendocrine Cancer UK at such a pivotal time. Working with Catherine has been a privilege, and I want to recognise the outstanding work she has done in establishing and developing the charity over the past 20 years. I’m committed to carrying that legacy forward and improving how neuroendocrine cancer is diagnosed and treated across the UK.”
Neuroendocrine Cancer UK remains fully committed to supporting patients, families, and healthcare professionals, and will continue to advocate fiercely for the neuroendocrine cancer community during and beyond this leadership transition.
Thank you for your continued support during this time of exciting change.
Please watch Catherine’s message: