Suffolk resident Ellen Taylor has joined the Chesapeake Humane Society as executive director.

In that position, she will help promote the welfare of companion animals through programs and initiatives that reduce pet overpopulation, increase adoptions and encourage responsible pet guardianship through affordable pet care.

She also will serve the agency’s board of directors in carrying out their vision to help pets and the people who love them find each other and stay together.

Taylor, who lives in North Suffolk, was previously director of animal welfare and education for the American Humane Association, headquartered in Washington, D.C.

In that role she oversaw animal welfare-related training programs, developing and directing education program curricula and delivery, providing shelter assessment and professional mentoring services, distributing grant funds and participating in the planning and execution of the Animal Welfare Program’s strategic goals.

Prior to that, Taylor worked for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New York, where she primarily supported the partner communities of Tampa, Fla., and Shelby County, Ala., in their efforts to foster cooperation between various animal-welfare organizations.

She also has served as director of animal care services at the Humane Society of South Mississippi, where she re-established animal sheltering programs following Hurricane Katrina, doubling the number of animals altered in the spay/neuter clinic, increasing adoptions and implementing progressive, measurable programs.

She has held various other positions with animal welfare groups in Cleveland, Ohio, and Fort Collins, Colo.

“It is good to be home in Virginia,” Taylor said. “I am honored to be leading an organization with a strong foundation, tremendous growth potential and incredible compassion for animals.”

Taylor attended Northern Virginia Community College and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in humane leadership.

“We are very lucky to have Ellen join us,” said Cheryl Hindle, president of the CHS Board of Directors. “The timing was right for the Chesapeake Humane Society and for her. We have exciting plans, and Ellen has the expertise needed to carry them forward.”