Chris Sherwood, the Chief Executive of the RSPCA, has announced his departure from the organisation at the end of its 200th anniversary year.
After six years at the helm of the UK’s leading animal welfare charity, Sherwood will be taking up the position of Chief Executive at the NSPCC in 2025.
Claire Horton CBE, Chair of the RSPCA, expressed gratitude for Sherwood’s leadership and vision during his tenure. She praised his role in transforming the charity and modernising its approach, stating, “Chris has spearheaded a seismic transformation, modernising leadership, culture and governance. His ambitious new strategic direction of partnership working, alongside an exciting refreshed brand, is galvanising the public, charities and organisations, thought leaders and those critical in shaping legislation to tackle the huge challenges facing animals we share our world with – today and in the future.”
Six Years of Change at the RSPCA
Sherwood’s leadership has seen the RSPCA through significant periods of change and challenge. Under his stewardship, the charity navigated the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, launched a record-breaking emergency appeal, and established a £1.5 million cost of living fund to support struggling pet owners and animal charities. Notably, the organisation provided over one million meals through a newly established pet food bank and supported animals and their owners affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
Sherwood also oversaw key legislative changes, including the enshrinement of animal sentience in law, tougher sentences for animal abuse, and the end of live animal exports. His efforts have helped the RSPCA remain financially stable while continuing its mission to protect animals and promote animal welfare.
RSPCA’s Historic Role and Future Vision
Founded in 1824, the RSPCA has played a pivotal role in the global animal welfare movement for 200 years. Its efforts have shaped behaviours, laws, and attitudes towards animal welfare both in the UK and around the world. Reflecting on the RSPCA’s historic role, Claire Horton praised Sherwood’s contribution during this milestone year and his dedication to the charity’s future. “Chris will be leaving us at the end of December as we conclude our exciting 200th anniversary year. He leaves us in a financially and operationally strong position as we continue in our mission to tackle the increasing challenges facing animals.”
Sherwood’s departure marks the start of a new chapter for both the RSPCA and the NSPCC, a charity with close historic ties to the RSPCA. The NSPCC was founded in 1884 with support from RSPCA members, and the two organisations have maintained a working relationship, with RSPCA officers regularly reporting potential child protection concerns they encounter during their animal welfare investigations.
Chris Sherwood’s Reflections on His Time at RSPCA
Chris Sherwood joined the RSPCA in 2018 and immediately set out to modernise the charity, introducing a new strategy, Together for Animal Welfare, which positioned the RSPCA for future growth and stability. Reflecting on his time at the organisation, Sherwood stated, “I have been so honoured to lead the world’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity, and it’s fitting at the close of the RSPCA’s 200th anniversary year to be joining the NSPCC – a charity which shares heritage with the RSPCA as well as the same desire to create a kinder and more compassionate society.”
Sherwood also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing animals and the environment. “Animals need our help now more than ever, with the growth of industrial farming, climate change, wildlife dissemination and the threat of future pandemics. But I am leaving the RSPCA with a committed and effective leadership team together with passionate staff, volunteers, branches and supporters, with exciting plans and expertise to take on those challenges.”
Recruitment for New RSPCA Chief Executive
With Sherwood’s departure set for the end of December, the RSPCA will begin the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive in autumn 2024. Claire Horton and the RSPCA’s Board of Trustees will oversee the process, with the aim of finding a dynamic leader to carry forward the charity’s mission and values into the next chapter of its history.
As Sherwood prepares to take on his new role at the NSPCC, he leaves the RSPCA in a strong position both financially and operationally. The charity continues to face the increasing challenges of modern animal welfare, but with a clear strategic direction and a committed team in place, it is well-positioned to build on the foundation Sherwood has laid.
