Senior Handicapper

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is the regulatory and governing authority for the sport of Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand. Our primary mission is to ensure the sustained prosperity and successful development of Thoroughbred racing throughout the country, while also enhancing its appeal to customers and bolstering its position within New Zealand's sporting and cultural landscape.

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. 

Moreover, with the advent of the new Racing Industry Act, NZTR has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing all facets of Thoroughbred racing in the country. This has ushered in a period of momentous change, as the new industry arrangements are integrated and NZTR's remit and role expands across the industry.

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

About the Role
We have a rare opportunity for a Senior Handicapper to join our Cambridge based team. In this role, you will lead the domestic and international handicapping activity for New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing in accordance with the NZ Handicapping policy, analysing field information, verifying horse eligibility, and evaluating each contender against our rating-based system.

Your key responsibility will involve collaborating closely with our Bureau team to finalise race fields, releasing weights, and ensuring adherence to our handicapping standards. You will be at the forefront of statistical analysis for NZTR and industry stakeholders, overseeing racing meetings to uphold penalty regulations and ballot conditions.

Beyond these core duties, you will play a crucial role in elevating the global presence of the New Zealand Thoroughbred Industry. By ensuring optimal International Ratings for locally trained horses, you will actively promote our industry on an international scale. Additionally, you will support the NZ Pattern Committee to maintain and elevate the standards of black-type racing, cementing our position as a leader in the field. Join us in shaping the future of Thoroughbred Racing in New Zealand and beyond.

About the Team
We're a small group of enthusiastic and like-minded individuals who share a passion for driving our industry forward. But don't let our professionalism fool you, we love to have a good laugh and know how to have fun. 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
The ideal candidate will have a strong racing background with a minimum of 10 years in a similar role, in New Zealand or other racing jurisdictions. The successful candidate will be proficient in self-leadership and prioritisation skills, coupled with excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

You will have a proven track record in writing comprehensive reports, policies, and procedures, alongside proficiency in leveraging the Microsoft Office suite. You will engage with individuals at all levels of the business including external industry participants, therefore your excellent communication and interpersonal skills will enable you to build strong relationships and provide support wherever necessary.

About the Offer
To attract and retain top talent in the industry, we offer competitive market-related salaries that are reflective of the skills, experience, and expertise of our people. We have a great workplace located in Cambridge. 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're passionate about horse racing and aspire to work in a dynamic and fun environment, then look no further! Join us and become a 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!