GM – Welfare & Industry Capability

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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 strategic and values-driven leader to join our Executive Team as General Manager – Welfare & Industry Capability, based in Cambridge. This full-time role will lead NZTR’s efforts to protect equine welfare and build a skilled, sustainable, and future-ready racing workforce.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering NZTR’s national frameworks for equine welfare, education, training, and industry capability. You’ll lead cross-functional teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and drive initiatives that promote ethical standards, professional development, and long-term sustainability across the thoroughbred sector.

From developing lifetime care strategies for racehorses to creating career pathways for industry participants, your work will directly influence the integrity, reputation, and future of Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand.

About the Team

You’ll be part of NZTR’s Senior Leadership Team, working alongside passionate professionals who are committed to the long-term success of Thoroughbred racing. We value collaboration, integrity, and a 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 a strong understanding of the racing industry or a related sector such as animal welfare, sport, education, or regulation. You’ll bring strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement skills, and a deep commitment to ethical leadership and continuous improvement.

Key attributes include:

• Experience leading welfare, training, or industry development initiatives
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
• Knowledge of equine health, traceability, and lifetime care
• Strategic and commercial acumen with a data-informed approach
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive performance
• Excellent communication skills and public representation experience
• Familiarity with vocational training, workforce planning, or career pathway development
• Exposure to international standards and best practices in racing or welfare

If you’re passionate about the future of Thoroughbred racing and ready to lead meaningful change across welfare and industry capability, we’d love to hear from you!