Leone brings decades of experience in local business leadership and dog welfare advocacy to new role
Washington, D.C. – Today, District Dogs, the Washington Metropolitan Area’s leading dog daycare, boarding, and grooming service, announced Tina Leone, a local business and dog welfare leader, as the company’s new chief executive officer.
Ms. Leone, most recently the CEO of the Ballston BID in Arlington, VA, has more than 25 years of transformational economic development and management experience in the region. She was previously the President and CEO of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, the chief executive of the Lorton Arts foundation, and held multiple senior leadership positions in business and accounting consultancies.
Advancing dog wellbeing has long been her defining personal mission. She is the founder of Sporting Dog Rescue International, the past Chair of American Brittany Rescue where she has volunteered for 20 years, and a former board member of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. District Dogs founder Jacob Hensley said Ms. Leone’s personal dedication and professional achievements make her the ideal leader for the company as it charts its next phase of growth and service to its clients.
“We are truly excited about the future as we announce Tina as our new CEO,” said Hensley. “This year marks the 10th anniversary of District Dogs, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by welcoming someone who shares our incredible passion for animal welfare and our vision for community building. Tina’s unique background makes her the ideal leader for the District Dogs family. I have never been more optimistic about our future. Tina’s leadership will ensure that we build on our past successes, while deepening our relationships with our clients and the communities that we serve.”
Ms. Leone said the new position marks an enormously satisfying culmination point in her career—a perfect union of her personal and professional passions and abilities.
“What truly excites me about joining District Dogs is the opportunity to work every day alongside dedicated people who share my deep love for dogs,” Leone said. “That combined with my extensive experience in leading and growing organizations, aligns perfectly with my personal values and professional aspirations. It is truly a dream job! I look forward to working with Jacob and the entire District Dogs team to further develop and strengthen our business by creating the community programs, events, and experiences that will exceed our clients’ expectations and enrich the lives of the dogs we are fortunate to serve.”
In her role as CEO, Ms. Leone will report to Mr. Hensley who will step into the role of Executive Chairman of the Board where he will focus on business development and the District Dogs franchises. Along with building local and strategic partnerships, Ms. Leone will manage existing stores and lead day-to-day business operations.
Members of the media interested in speaking with Mr. Hensley or Ms. Leone may contact Brendan Williams-Kief at bwk@georgetownpa.com or 202-905-6284.
