John May CVO OBE DL

Current High Sheriff (2025 - 2026)

John May is a distinguished leader in the voluntary, education and youth work sectors. Currently serving as the Chief Executive of Cats Protection, the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, John has dedicated his career to empowering communities and organisations globally. From transforming underperforming schools to spearheading large-scale initiatives, his expertise spans a wide range of leadership roles, including his tenure as Secretary General of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and Vice Chair of the World Organization of the Scout Movement.

During his career, John has held senior positions with UNICEF, Young Enterprise, and Business in the Community, contributing significantly to social impact and community engagement. He is a Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Chair of Trustees for Oxfordshire Youth, President of British Scouting Overseas, Vice President of The Marine Society and Sea Cadets, and a National Ambassador for Stonewall, advocating for equality and diversity.

John’s contributions to society have been recognised with numerous honours, including an OBE for services to young people, and a CVO in the 2025 New Year’s Honours.

John resides in rural Oxfordshire with his husband, Mark, and their cat, Blenheim. Passionate about the outdoors, he enjoys walking, parkrunning, cooking, music and theatre.