Claire said she was “thrilled and humbled” but added that the awards are about teams, not just individuals.

Claire Horton honoured for charity leadership

The chief executive of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Claire Horton, has been named Public/Third Sector Director of the Year.

Claire received her award from the Institute of Directors (IoD) at its prestigious London and South East Director of the Year Awards. The ceremony champions commercial success and responsible leadership, rewarding those who show professionalism, diligence and creativity to inspire employees.

Since joining Battersea as chief executive in 2010, Claire has seen soaring public support for the charity, which is now one of the UK’s top 10 best known charities. Volunteer numbers have increased by 200 per cent and last year there was a 48 per cent hike in the number of foster carers.

Claire is a graduate of Warwick Business School and has 30 years’ experience in the voluntary sector. She works with local and central government, other charities and rescue centres to help change the way they manage the facilities for their animals.

A key theme of her career has been working across multiple sectors and promoting collaboration. She represents companion animal welfare on the Animal Health and Welfare Board for England and is chairman of the Association of Dogs and Cat Homes, which brings together more than 120 rescue and rehoming organisations.

Commenting on her award, Claire said she was “thrilled and humbled” but added that the awards are about teams, not just individuals.

“These IoD awards are not just about celebrating individuals, every business leader is only as good as the team they work with, so these awards are very much about them too - they are a celebration of the people who bring the passion, commitment, knowledge and expertise that make UK organisations the successes they are.”

Image courtesy of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home