The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is set to reveal the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the start of next year.
In updating its leadership transition plans, the BHA emphasized that the newly appointed Chair, Lord Allen of Kensington, has been actively involved in the recruitment process as planned.
Over the summer, Julie Harrington declared she would conclude her service as CEO of the BHA at the end of the year, on December 31st.
In light of this, the BHA has announced that Chief Regulatory Officer Brant Dunshea will temporarily assume the position of Interim CEO while the board completes its recruitment efforts.
Lord Allen’s appointment was publicized in November, following his selection as the new Chairman to replace Joe Saumarez Smith, who stepped down to undergo cancer treatment.
Lord Allen, who previously chaired the Invictus Games and the Management Board of the Labour Party, is scheduled to begin his term in June 2025.
The imminent appointment of a CEO is pivotal for the BHA, as the incoming leader will manage critical discussions regarding UK Racing’s stance on structuring and funding the Horseracing Levy.
UK Racing has voiced concerns, referencing UK Gambling Commission statistics that indicate a £3 billion shortfall in online betting revenue, largely due to the impact of affordability checks on patrons.
The racing sector has urged governmental intervention to address affordability checks that overlook the particular needs of racing enthusiasts.
Negotiations over the new terms of the Horseracing Levy will be conducted between the BHA and the UK gambling industry’s representative, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) acting as a mediator.