Dovehaven appoints new Group People Director

Dovehaven Care Homes has appointed Louise Rooney as its new Group People Director, strengthening its senior leadership team as the family-owned care provider continues to invest in its people and employee experience.

Louise joined Dovehaven on 5th October 2026, bringing extensive senior HR experience from large, multi-site organisations, including Princes Group and Bespak.

Throughout her career, Louise has worked across a broad range of people and HR functions, with particular experience in recruitment and retention, employee relations, leadership development and supporting organisations and teams through periods of change.

In her new role, Louise will join Dovehaven’s Executive Leadership Team and lead the organisation’s HR and Recruitment functions, supporting colleagues across its growing portfolio of care homes in the North West.

Her appointment comes as Dovehaven continues to develop its people strategy, with a focus on creating a positive and consistent employee experience, supporting career development and ensuring colleagues have the right tools, training and support to deliver high-quality care.

Dovehaven CEO, Jenny Davies said: “We’re really pleased to welcome Louise to Dovehaven. She brings a wealth of experience from complex, multi-site organisations, and I’m looking forward to seeing her build on the strong foundations already in place across our HR and Recruitment teams. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, so having the right leadership and support around our teams is incredibly important. Louise will play a key role in helping us continue to develop our people strategy and make Dovehaven a great place to work.”

Louise added: “I am delighted to be joining Dovehaven as Group People Director at such an exciting time for the organisation. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating workplaces where people feel valued, supported and empowered to deliver their very best. Having the opportunity to work alongside the dedicated colleagues who provide outstanding care across Dovehaven is a privilege. I am looking forward to listening, learning and working with our teams to build on the strong culture already in place and ensure Dovehaven continues to be a fantastic place to work, grow and deliver exceptional care for residents and their families.”

Louise succeeds Emily O’Keefe, who stepped down as Group HR Director at the end of August following more than two years with Dovehaven.

During her time with the organisation, Emily played an important role in developing Dovehaven’s HR and Recruitment functions and strengthening the teams supporting colleagues across the business. Dovehaven thanked Emily for her contribution and wished her well for the next chapter.

Louise’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Dovehaven’s People Team, as the organisation continues to build on the strong foundations already in place and invest in the people who make its homes and communities what they are.

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