The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed the appointment of a leadership consultancy firm to oversee the process for recruiting a permanent Chair.

Elevate Talent is a global agency with a strong reputation for sourcing exceptional leaders across a range of sectors, including for sports governing bodies.

Appointed by the BHA’s Nominations Committee following a successful tender process, Elevate Talent will begin the recruitment process immediately.

Alongside the skills expected of a senior leader with significant Board-level experience, the successful candidate will have an active knowledge of horse racing, the industry’s financial model, stakeholder environment, political relationships and the interdependence between racing and gambling.

They will also have a track record of implementing customer growth strategies and an open and transparent approach to inspire confidence among racing’s stakeholders, participants and customers.

When appointed, the BHA Chair will be responsible for supporting the BHA’s executive team in delivering the long-term strategy to secure British racing’s future, including through the growth of the sport’s income, participation, customers and audience.

They will lead the recruitment and development of an effective, skilled and experienced Board to take the difficult decisions that reflect the interests of the whole industry and its member bodies.

This includes the effective regulation of the industry, prioritising horse and human welfare, and ensuring the highest standards of integrity to maintain Brish racing’s international reputation as a safe, clean and fair racing jurisdiction.

Working with the BHA executive, the Chair will foster effective working relationships with government departments to help shape national policymaking in priority areas and work closely with industry stakeholders to support the sport’s commercial interests and growth strategies.

The full candidate brief is available on the BHA website. The role will involve a two-day per week commitment for the successful candidate. Applications for the role close on 19 June.

David Jones will continue in his role as BHA interim Chair until a permanent appointment is made.

Notes to editors:

The BHA Nominations Committee makes recommendations to the Board on suitable candidates for appointment to the Board and the role of Chief Executive.

The committee comprises three independent board members, one member appointed by the Racecourse Association (RCA) and one member collectively appointed by the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA), Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (TBA) and Licensed Personnel.

For the appointment of the new BHA Chair, an interim Nominations Committee has been formed comprising the following members:

• Kyrsten Halley (Nominations Committee Chair)
• Tara Warren
• Raj Parker
• Louise Stewart appointed by the RCA
• Philip Newton appointed by the ROA, TBA and Licensed Personnel