Track and Facilities Manager

About the Company:
The Otago Racing Club is based at Wingatui Racecourse in Mosgiel on the outskirts of Dunedin. The club runs its own race day’s and also hosts tenant club meetings. These race day’s include Melbourne Cup Day, the Boxing Day Races, Otago Family Fun Day, and the million-dollar raceday - Otago Classics, as well as the extremely popular Christmas At the Races, Cromwell.

Wingatui is much more than just a racecourse. It is also a full-time training facility for thoroughbred horses and a Function Centre hosting parties, weddings, business, and numerous community events.

The Role:
Due to the retirement of our current track manager after 20 years, we are looking for a new Track and Facilities Manager. Our current track manager is due to retire in March 2026. There will be a transitional period to ensure a smooth handover process.

The Track and Facilities Manager is responsible for leading the team that provides the maintenance and management of Wingatui Racecourse, including the course proper, training tracks, grounds and buildings.

The Track and Facilities Manager will be involved in liaising with various stakeholders, including NZTR, RIB, Trainers, and others, to ensure the Club is best prepared for race days and events.

Some of the key areas include:

• Leading the team that provides a high-quality range of services, including tracks for racing and training activities, fostering a positive & productive environment
• Plan and oversee maintenance & renovation programs for the course proper & training track set out in the NZTR guidelines
• Directing the team to conduct the club's race meetings
• Racing Operations, liaising with NZTR and other stakeholders to organise race meetings
• Coordinate and manage assets, infrastructure, and daily operations of racing, training, grounds, and function facilities
• Liaising with contractors and/or suppliers in relation to tracks & building maintenance
• Work in collaboration with the Club's other staff for race days and other functions
• Prepare budgets in relation to tracks and building maintenance
• Workplace Safety: Ensure compliance with Work Health and Safety Management Systems to provide a safe working environment.

Health & Safety

• The role is responsible for the Health and Safety of the Track & Facilities team at Otago Racing Club
• Maintain and update the online Health and Safety system alongside the rest of the ORC team

 Person Specification  

• Recognised qualifications in Turf Management and/or experience in managing racing and training surfaces
• Knowledge of Race meeting operations and requirements
• Experience in operating and maintaining irrigation systems
• Knowledge of NZTR Tracks Preparation Policy would be beneficial
• Current full driver’s licence and the ability to operate and maintain all manner of tracks and farm maintenance equipment and machinery
• Competent computer skills and knowledge of using MS office
• Ability to manage a team of individuals and motivate them in their respective roles
• Excellent verbal, written communication, and negotiation skills
• Ability to identify and provide solutions of high standards aimed at addressing business and customer needs
• Able to remain efficient and effective when faced with changing tasks, responsibilities, conditions, and people

If you are looking for a challenging and exciting role and want to be part of a small, hands-on team. Apply now online or by sending a CV and covering letter to [email protected].

Applications close Friday, 22nd August at 5pm.