Tasracing has appointed Dr Eliot Forbes to the position of Chief Executive Officer.
Tasracing chairman Brian Speers said Dr Forbes was selected from a strong field of candidates from throughout Australia.
“He joined Tasracing as its Chief Operating Officer in the middle of 2010 after working in senior racing roles in the United Arab Emirates and as an equine veterinary surgeon in Macau, Qatar, Australia and the United Kingdom,” he said.
His responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer included the supervision of racing operations statewide, marketing and asset management.
“He led the project team for the $10 million redevelopment of Devonport racecourse, which features Australia’s first Tapeta synthetic surface which has been extremely well received by racing participants across the thoroughbred and harness codes.”
Dr Forbes said there had been significant change in the racing and wagering landscape in Australia in recent years.
“The Tasmanian racing industry is facing many challenges, including competition from sports wagering and dramatic changes in customer preferences,” he said.
“To be successful our industry needs to be lean and customer-focused, relevant to current and new audiences and have a powerful digital presence.
“These areas will be a key focus for me in the short to medium-term as we continue to work with our industry partners to develop a more sustainable sector which has less reliance on Tasmanian Government funding for its operations.”
Mr Speers said Tasracing received 18 applications for the position from around Australia, interviewing four candidates.
A selection committee comprising Tasracing Board members Danny McCarthy, Dean Cooper and Mr Speers unanimously recommended to the Board that Dr Forbes be appointed.
Dr Forbes, a veterinary graduate from the University of Queensland who also holds an MBA from La Trobe University and is a director of Greyhounds Australia, replaces outgoing CEO Gary Lottering, effective from 1 August 2012.
Mr Lottering has worked in senior management positions in the Tasmanian racing industry for 10 years, including as CEO of Tasracing since its inception in 2009.
Mr Speers said Mr Lottering had done an excellent job as CEO, and thanked him for his commitment during a challenging period for the industry.
“Gary oversaw the establishment of the company and then managed the business through significant industry and wagering market changes,” he said.
Released by:
Nicolas Turner
Tel: 6210 5206 or 0418 538 865