GM – Brand Experience, Communications & Industry Promotion

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New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is the regulatory and governing authority for the sport of Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand. We are on a mission to create a sustainable and successful Thoroughbred Racing Industry for Kiwis to enjoy for many generations to come!

Racing is a significant contributor to the New Zealand economy, accounting for a remarkable $1.9 billion in value-added GDP and directly employs more than 13,000 individuals.

At NZTR, we oversee and regulate all aspects of Thoroughbred racing, from licensing and registrations to setting the races, race promotion, and ensuring the wellbeing of our people and horses. Following the recent appointment of CEO Matt Ballesty, NZTR is undergoing a period of bold and transformational change. Together, we are driving the initiatives that will see racing thrive for many years by attracting new talent and engaging a new demographic of punters, owners, and racing enthusiasts.

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join our Executive Team as GM - Brand Experience, Communications & Industry Promotion, based in Cambridge. This full-time role will lead NZTR’s efforts to elevate the sport’s profile, deepen fan engagement, and drive commercial growth through strategic brand, media, and stakeholder initiatives.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership position responsible for shaping and delivering NZTR’s national strategies across brand experience, marketing, communications, and public relations. You’ll lead a high-performing team, collaborate with clubs and industry partners, and drive initiatives that grow the sport’s relevance, visibility, and fan base.

From leading major racing events and digital campaigns to managing media relations and brand storytelling, your work will directly influence how Thoroughbred racing is experienced and celebrated across New Zealand and beyond.

About the Team

You’ll be part of NZTR’s Senior Leadership Team, working alongside passionate professionals committed to the long-term success of Thoroughbred racing. We value creativity, collaboration, and a bold, forward-thinking mindset. Our Cambridge office offers a vibrant work environment with great amenities, free parking, and flexible working arrangements.

About the Person

We’re looking for a proven senior leader with deep expertise in brand, communications, media, or fan engagement—ideally within sport, entertainment, or a similarly dynamic industry. You’ll bring strategic thinking, commercial acumen, and a passion for storytelling and audience connection.

Key attributes include:

• Senior leadership experience in brand, marketing, or communications
• Strong digital background and experience leading rebranding initiatives
• Proven ability to grow fan engagement and build commercial partnerships
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and public representation skills
• Strategic mindset with a data-informed approach to decision-making
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing performance
• Familiarity with event-based marketing and sponsorship activation
• Passion for Thoroughbred racing or a related sector (e.g., sport, wagering, entertainment)

If you’re ready to shape the future of Thoroughbred racing and lead bold, creative strategies that connect with fans and grow the sport, we’d love to hear from you!