Blue Zoo Adds Claire Horseman to Team

Blue Zoo Animation Studio has appointed Claire Horseman as its new head of people and talent, taking over for Pauline Hamilton after seven years.

Hamilton was the architect behind Blue Zoo’s culture, and she built an environment that won the studio a spot on Broadcast’s list of the best places to work in TV five times in a row. After seven years of heading up the studio’s people strategy, she is moving on to retirement, and Horseman will take over the role.

Horseman brings over 25 years of experience across the media and entertainment landscape to the role. She will lead the people strategy with a focus ensuring that the award-winning culture stays at the forefront of the studio’s priorities. She will oversee all aspects of talent management, including recruitment, employee relations, learning and development, compensation and benefits and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

“It’s impossible to overstate Paulene’s contribution to Blue Zoo,” said Tom Box, co-founder. “She has been our anchor, ensuring that as we grew, we did so with heart. We will miss her hugely, but she leaves a powerful legacy. Now, as our industry faces new challenges, our strategy is to double down on what makes us unique: our human talent. That’s why we’re so thrilled to welcome Claire. She isn’t just a people leader; she’s a culture builder who gets that the success of a studio comes only from its people. Her experience in helping people grow and adapt is vital for our next chapter of creative innovation and success.”

Horseman commented, “I am delighted to be joining the talent team at Blue Zoo. It’s a studio renowned for its creativity, innovation and strong values. I’ve long admired their work and culture. I’m eager to contribute to the studio’s continued success by focusing on attracting, retaining and developing the best talent in the industry, while honoring the wonderful legacy Paulene Hamilton has built.”