Chief Operating Officer

About Racing Australia

Racing Australia serves as the central authority for Australian Thoroughbred breeding and racing, comprising the six State and two Territory racing bodies recognised under the Australian Rules of Racing as Principal Racing Authorities. This industry is an integral part of Australia's heritage with an estimated $13.5 billion economic impact, more than half of which benefits regional areas. The sector supports approximately 75,000 jobs and involves nearly 160,000 participants, employees, and volunteers, with a significant proportion residing regionally. Volunteers number over 21,000, contributing essential support to clubs and participants.

Role Overview

This position offers a unique executive leadership opportunity within a modest internal team representing a complex and nationally important industry. Reporting directly alongside the CEO and CFO, the successful candidate will be groomed to understand operational, strategic, and stakeholder dimensions, positioning them as a leading candidate for CEO succession anticipated within the next year. This role demands a balance between hands-on operational management and broad strategic leadership, including relationship development and political insight.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations ensuring seamless delivery of services across the organisation.
• Enhance systems, governance, financial controls, and overall organisational performance to best serve the Thoroughbred racing community.
• Provide oversight of industry programs, board committees, and collaborate with CTO and CFO on human resources, safety, racing, breeding materials, and technology projects.
• Shadow the CEO to develop comprehensive knowledge of organisational and industry dynamics to prepare for future leadership.
• Build extensive networks with national and international stakeholders, industry leaders, and government agencies.
• Contribute to strategic planning, foster industry growth, and support policy initiatives.
• Lead organisational change initiatives, innovation, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Engage with key stakeholders to sustain growth, participation, and positive industry relations.
• Represent Racing Australia professionally in forums, meetings, and public engagements.
• Assist CEO and Board with governance, reporting, compliance, and risk management duties.
• Promote a positive workplace culture characterized by collaboration, accountability, and professionalism.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven executive leadership experience in roles such as COO, General Manager, or Executive Manager.
• Strong operational leadership and a pragmatic management style.
• Capable of balancing strategic responsibilities with hands-on operational tasks.
• Experience working in technology-driven organisations providing essential industry services.
• Familiarity working with boards, senior industry figures, and governance frameworks.
• Commercially astute with strategic thinking and excellent communication skills.
• High integrity, professional judgment, and mature leadership style.
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively with a positive, solution-oriented attitude.

Desirable Experience and Attributes

• Background in racing, sporting administration, peak bodies, or related industry associations.
• Knowledge of governance and stakeholder environments in national sporting organisations.
• Experience with CEO succession planning or leadership transitions.
• Skills in public relations, media handling, advocacy, government relations, and policy development.
• Natural leadership presence, adaptability, and ability to build relationships quickly.
• Ambition and resilience to take on significant leadership roles with passion for the sport.

Additional Information

This role is based either in Sydney or Melbourne and is a full-time, onsite position. Applicants must be Australian residents with no visa restrictions. The application deadline is 13th August. Candidates should submit a resume for consideration. Confidential inquiries can be directed to the assisting consultant by phone. The organisation is committed to fostering leadership through this career progression opportunity within a nationally influential entity.