THE USPCA has suspended its chief executive Stephen Philpott following "issues of concerns" about the charity's management.
In a statement, the charity said disciplinary proceedings had begun against Mr Philpott following an independent investigation.
Mr Philpott holds a high-profile role within the charity and regularly speaks out about animal cruelty issues dealt with in Northern Ireland.
USPCA members were told about his suspension at the charity's annual general meeting yesterday.
A spokeswoman for the charity said members were "informed that following a full review of corporate governance procedures, new governance structures have been established within the USPCA to ensure the charity is fit for purpose for the future within a much strengthened regulatory environment".
"The out workings of these new governance systems have led to issues of concern being identified with regard the management of the charity.
"This has led to the suspension of the chief executive Stephen Philpott and following an independent investigation, the issuing of disciplinary proceedings.
"These proceedings are on-going and the charity cannot comment further until they have been completed."
Mr Philpott had by Tuesday night not yet spoken about his suspension.
