Claire Horton has been named as chief executive for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, commencing Monday 7 June. She joins Battersea from the Variety Club of Great Britain where she was chief operating officer.

The home’s chairman, Robin Bolton said: “Today’s announcement is a major step forward for the Home. Claire Horton joins Battersea at a particularly exciting time as we celebrate our 150th anniversary year. Her wealth of experience from both the commercial and not-for-profit sectors will be of enormous value to this much loved animal welfare organisation as it continues its vital work.”

Horton spent six years as a director with Cats Protection in the 1990's and has spent the past ten years in CEO and Board level gaining strategic and operational development, business planning and income generation skills.

“These are difficult economic times for the animal welfare and the charity sector in general, and so it has never been more important for Battersea to make every penny count – both in terms of fundraising income and also managing day to day costs," said Horton. 

"The name of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is synonymous with caring and responsible animal welfare and my focus will be to ensure that the Home receives the recognition and support it needs so that it continues to meet its core commitment of never turning away a dog or cat in need of care.”