Julie Harrington to depart as CEO of the British Horseracing Authority
12 June 2024 - 19:44UK – The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has announced that CEO Julie Harrington will be stepping down from her role at the end of the year. Harrington, who took over from Nick Rust in 2020, will be concluding her four-year tenure. Rust, her predecessor, currently chairs the Gambling Commission’s Industry Forum.
Previously the chief executive of UK Cycling, Harrington has overseen significant changes at the BHA, from guiding the relaunch of racing post-Covid-19 to implementing organizational restructuring and shaping strategic direction and regulatory developments. The BHA has been notably vocal against the government's proposed financial risk checks for online gambling.
During her leadership, Harrington also spearheaded the creation of the BHA’s Horseracing Industry People Board, aiming to foster inclusion among those working in UK racing. With her departure, the BHA faces the task of filling two pivotal roles, as Joe Saumarez Smith will also step down as chair in May 2025. Recruitment for his successor has already begun. The incoming executive team will be tasked with finalizing a new betting levy structure for UK operators.
Reflecting on her departure, Harrington stated, “With the Industry Strategy now poised for development and growth, ensuring a promising future for British horseracing, it feels like the right moment to pass the baton to someone new to guide the sport into its next exciting phase.
“It has been an immense privilege to lead the BHA through a transformative period as we developed and implemented shared strategies for a sustainable future, allowing us to speak with a unified voice.
“British Horseracing is a fundamental part of our sporting and cultural heritage. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to it, both during my time at Northern Racing, on the BHA Board, and as CEO of the BHA. I wish the industry continued success in the coming years.”
Saumarez Smith remarked, “Leading any sport for four years demands intense focus, concentration, and vast energy. Julie has exemplified all of these qualities, even in a challenging stakeholder and political landscape. The BHA Board and I fully understand her decision to step down and wish her every success in her future endeavors.
“Julie has been an outstanding Chief Executive for the BHA, making significant contributions to the industry since her appointment. We have been fortunate to have her leadership, and she will be hard to replace. I am thankful she agreed to remain until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition as we search for her successor.”