Racing Bureau Lead

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is the regulatory and governing body 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 $1.6 billion (0.9% of GDP) and directly employing around 10,000 individuals.

At NZTR, we oversee all aspects of Thoroughbred racing, from licensing and registrations to setting the races and ensuring the wellbeing of our people and horses. Our industry is in the midst of some exciting dynamic change, with NZTR relocating to Cambridge, the heart of Thoroughbred racing, and an exciting new wagering partner, Entain. Together, we are driving the much-needed transformation to thrive for many years to come, attracting new talent and engaging a new demographic of punters, owners, and racing enthusiasts.

Join us at NZTR and be part of a team that is at the forefront of this exciting period of transformation in the New Zealand's Thoroughbred racing industry!

About the Role
We have an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about Thoroughbred Racing to join our team as Racing Bureau Lead. This role will lead the daily operations of our National Racing Bureau, a small but highly engaged team of Racing Coordinators who are responsible for setting the races on a weekly basis. Reporting to the Head of Racing, you'll be at the heart of all things racing operations ensuring seamless delivery of race programming, raceday logistics, and handicapping support. As the 2IC to the Head of Racing, this role ensures that operational processes run efficiently, staff are well-supported, and stakeholders are kept informed of all Bureau activities.

As part of this role, you will manage logistics for trial meetings, including producing fields and ensuring race day services with partners like St John. You will coordinate with Clubs, Programming Chairmen, and stakeholders on race adjustments while maintaining race records, including results, stable returns, vet certificates, and financial preparations. You will provide direction, coaching, and resources to your team to ensure high performance and engagement while promoting a safe and engaged work environment for your team to show up as their best selves.

We’re a small but energetic team, so if you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy teamwork, and want to contribute to the success of our industry, we’d love to hear from you! Please note that this role may be required to work some weekends or hours outside of standard business hours to ensure optimum support to the industry. 

About the Team
We're a small group of enthusiastic and like-minded individuals who share a passion for driving our industry forward. We thrive in a collaborative environment where we learn from each other, share ideas, and always look for new and innovative ways to get the job done.

We're looking for someone who is eager to grow and develop alongside us, and who is just as passionate about fully engaging, supporting their colleagues, and working together as a team.

If you're someone who values a fun and engaging work environment, and who is always looking to learn and improve, then we want to hear from you! Join our team and let's work together to drive our industry forward.

About the Person
We're looking for someone with strong racing industry background and knowledge, alongside a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar capacity. You will be a seasoned leader and know how to drive engagement among your team, while building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as is a sharp eye for detail!

The team that this role will lead, work on a roster that sees them start at 6am in the morning and includes some weekend work. Therefore, our ideal candidate would be able to form part of this roster to ensure they are able to engage with their team at different times of the day and week.

About the Offer
To attract and retain top talent in the industry, we offer market-related salaries that are reflective of the skills, experience, and expertise of our people. We have a great workplace located in Cambridge town, just a short walk to loads of coffee shops and amenities. Not only will you have a smooth and easy commute to work, but you'll also enjoy free parking, annual race day passes and flexible working arrangements that fit your lifestyle.

If you are seeking a dynamic career in racing administration and aspire to work in a vibrant and fun environment, then look no further! Join us and become part of a team that offers more than just a job – we offer an environment where you can thrive, develop your skills and enjoy what you do!