Project Pace: Finding the Next CEO of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA)

Objective:

To identify and appoint a highly capable and visionary CEO for the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), who will lead the organisation through a period of change and ensure the continued success, integrity, and sustainability of the sport.

Project Overview:

Project Pace is an initiative aimed at identifying key candidates for the role of CEO at the BHA. The chosen leader will be responsible for steering the organisation through a complex landscape of challenges, including regulatory issues, the gambling reform debate, the sport's finances, and public perception. The process will focus on selecting a leader who can balance the competing interests of commercial success, welfare, and the future development of British racing.

Candidate Evaluation Criteria:

The ideal candidate must possess a blend of leadership, industry knowledge, and strategic vision. Key evaluation factors include:

1. Experience in Horse Racing and/or Betting: A deep understanding of the sport's nuances and the betting ecosystem that underpins its financial structure.

2. Leadership and Governance Experience: Demonstrated success in leading large organisations or industry bodies, especially in a complex regulatory environment.

3. Innovation and Strategic Vision: Ability to drive change and modernise the sport, while keeping in mind the heritage and traditional values of British horseracing.

4. Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to engage with diverse stakeholders—government, racing enthusiasts, the betting industry, owners, trainers, and the general public.

5. Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of the financial challenges faced by the sport, and the ability to secure and manage resources effectively.

6. Public Relations and Media Savvy: Ability to manage public-facing challenges, engage with media, and build trust and transparency with the racing public.

7. Diversity and Inclusivity: A commitment to making racing more inclusive, modern, and accessible for all communities.

Rating and Estimated Odds for BHA CEO Candidates – Project Pace

To provide ratings and estimated odds for each candidate, I’ll assess their likelihood of securing the position based on their strengths, weaknesses, industry connections, and public profile. These odds are a reflection of how I rate each candidate's potential fit for the role, based on the information currently available.

Candidate Ratings and Odds:

1. Nevin Truesdale – CEO of The Jockey Club

• Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

• Strengths: Truesdale's current position as CEO of The Jockey Club, one of British racing’s most prestigious organisations, puts him in a prime position. He understands the governance, operations, and financial challenges of the sport. His leadership during high-profile events such as the Cheltenham Festival gives him both credibility and experience. Truesdale would be a safe, reliable choice, and his track record of running a major organisation makes him an immediate front-runner.

• Weaknesses: Seen as part of the existing establishment, and may not be a choice for those seeking radical change.

• Estimated Odds: 2/1 (Favourite)

2. Josh Apiafi – Former CEO of the Professional Jockeys Association, BHA Board Member

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

• Strengths: Apiafi’s involvement across multiple areas of racing (Professional Jockeys Association, BHA, broadcasting, and betting) gives him a well-rounded perspective. He has a reputation for being innovative and is seen as an advocate for modernisation and inclusivity. His business experience, combined with his public profile, makes him a strong candidate, especially for those looking for a fresh, forward-thinking leader.

• Weaknesses: Though he has significant leadership experience, he might be viewed as less seasoned than someone like Truesdale in terms of managing large organisations.

• Estimated Odds: 5/2

3. Martin Cruddace – CEO of Arena Racing Company (ARC)

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

• Strengths: Cruddace's experience running ARC, one of the largest racecourse groups in the UK, makes him highly knowledgeable about racing’s commercial and operational aspects. His background in law and his deep understanding of the betting industry make him an asset for dealing with gambling reforms. He is highly capable of managing the financial side of the sport and dealing with stakeholders across racing and betting.

• Weaknesses: There may be concerns that he would prioritise commercial interests over broader welfare or regulatory reforms. Some may view his commercial focus as potentially conflicting with racing’s long-term integrity.

• Estimated Odds: 3/1

4. Alan Delmonte – CEO of the Horserace Betting Levy Board

• Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)

• Strengths: Delmonte has a strong financial and regulatory background, making him well-suited to handle the complex relationship between racing and betting, particularly in terms of funding. His deep knowledge of how levy funding supports racing would be a significant asset, especially given the financial pressures the sport is facing.

• Weaknesses: While highly competent in financial management, his experience with broader racing governance or media relations may not be as extensive as other candidates. He may be seen as more of a technical expert than a visionary leader.

• Estimated Odds: 4/1

5. Lydia Hislop – Racing Journalist and Broadcaster

• Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

• Strengths: Hislop is well-regarded within the racing community for her insightful, investigative journalism. She is respected by racing fans and participants alike for her deep understanding of the sport’s challenges. She would bring a transparent, reformist approach, with a focus on accountability and clear communication.

• Weaknesses: Lack of executive leadership experience in a large organisation might make her transition to the CEO role difficult. She may be seen as an outsider in terms of day-to-day racing governance and operations.

• Estimated Odds: 6/1

6. Matt Hancock – Former UK Health Secretary

• Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2.5/5)

• Strengths: Hancock’s political experience and connections could be useful for navigating regulatory and governmental challenges, particularly with the ongoing gambling reform discussions. He is a skilled communicator and is well-versed in managing public perception, which could be advantageous for the BHA’s public relations and lobbying efforts.

• Weaknesses: His limited experience in racing and the baggage from his political career (including public controversies) would make him a less favoured candidate. He may face pushback from within the racing community, which could hinder his effectiveness.

• Estimated Odds: 8/1

Summary of Odds:

1. Nevin Truesdale – 2/1 (Favourite)

2. Josh Apiafi – 5/2

3. Martin Cruddace – 3/1

4. Alan Delmonte – 4/1

5. Lydia Hislop – 6/1

6. Matt Hancock – 8/1

Conclusion:

• Nevin Truesdale is the clear front-runner, offering stability and continuity given his existing role in a key part of the racing industry.

• Josh Apiafi is a strong contender for those seeking change and innovation, with a focus on inclusivity and modernisation.

• Martin Cruddace brings commercial acumen but may be seen as too business-oriented for some stakeholders.

• Lydia Hislop represents a reformist option with a focus on transparency but lacks executive experience.

• Matt Hancock is a political wildcard, with significant public relations skills but limited direct involvement in racing.

Given these factors, the next CEO could come down to whether the BHA Board seeks a more traditional, experienced leader or someone with fresh, reformist ideas for the sport's future.