Claire Sheppard to step down as Chief Executive of The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association
The Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (TBA) has announced today that Claire Sheppard is to step down from her role in the Autumn following eight years as Chief Executive of the organisation.
During her tenure, Claire has been responsible for the development and ongoing success of the Great British Bonus scheme, advancing policies for improved welfare of both the sector’s thoroughbreds and people, taking the initiative on environmental sustainability as well as navigating the sector through more challenging periods including COVID and Brexit and managing the implications of both on the breeding sector.
During her time, she has also played a leading role in the sport’s long-term Industry Strategy as well as ensuring that the breeding sector’s contribution to the economy is acknowledged by government.
In a statement released on Thursday, Claire Sheppard said: “While working at the TBA, I am extremely proud of what the organisation has achieved for British breeders and the industry over the last eight years.
“I am very grateful to the TBA’s loyal and highly knowledgeable team who have taught me so much during my time here and have been very fortunate to work alongside two committed Chairmen over that period, including Philip Newton and former Chair, Julian Richmond Watson. I am grateful to them, and to all the TBA Trustees for the ongoing support they have given me.
"It has been a huge privilege to lead the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association during what has been a period of real change and challenge for the industry as the sport has developed and implemented shared strategies for a sustainable future. While there are still significant challenges ahead, I am confident we are moving in the right direction, and I will be leaving the TBA with the right Chair, team and Trustees to navigate these.
“I wish the board every success in the future to ensure the contribution made by the British breeding sector is supported and acknowledged at both government and wider industry level and is recognised as fundamental to the growth and future sustainability of this wonderful sport.
“The TBA Chief Executive role is incredibly rewarding, however I feel the time is right for me to step back from a full-time career. I will remain with the TBA until a suitable replacement has been identified and to allow for a smooth transition.”
TBA Chairman Philip Newton paid tribute to Claire’s leadership, stating: “The TBA has been very fortunate to have had Claire Sheppard’s dedication and expertise at the helm for the past eight years. She has championed the interests of the breeding sector with determination and persistence, navigating challenges in a complex stakeholder and political environment.
“Leading an organisation at the top of any sport requires total commitment, focus, and enormous amounts of energy, and Claire has delivered all of these. I, and the TBA Board, would like to thank her and wish her all the best in the future.”
The TBA has appointed an executive search specialist to oversee the recruitment process for a new chief executive.