Racing Victoria’s CEO, Andrew Jones, has stepped down from his position.
The announcement of his resignation came on Friday, with Aaron Morrison, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, slated to step in as the interim CEO.
Jones explained his decision, stating that his resignation aligns with the forthcoming appointment of a new RV chairman.
Speculation points to former AFL CEO Gil McLachlan as the likely candidate for the chairmanship, with interviews scheduled as part of the selection process within a fortnight.
Should McLachlan assume the role and accept it, Racing Minister Anthony Carbines is anticipated to make two additional board appointments.
Reflecting on his tenure, Jones remarked, “Having served under two Chairmen, my resignation makes way for the new Chair and Board to select a new CEO to take Racing Victoria forward into the future.”
He expressed gratitude to his RV team for their dedication over the past two years, highlighting achievements such as securing over $2 billion in future racing funding, enhancing schedules, establishing a dedicated media business, implementing world-class equine welfare policies, and facilitating increased support for jockeys and trainers.
Additionally, Jones noted the significance of the first major club merger in decades.
Jones emphasised the importance of expanding the sport’s fanbase for long-term sustainability and conveyed his best wishes for Racing Victoria’s success under new leadership.
Acting Chairman Mike Hirst praised Jones for his innovative approach, stating, “He challenged the industry to be more ambitious, and to rethink everything from programming and prizemoney distribution, to growing the fanbase and participant and equine welfare.”
Hirst acknowledged Jones’s significant contributions to sustaining an industry that supports over 25,000 jobs across the state.
In closing, Hirst, as the outgoing chairman, echoed Jones’s sentiments, extending his best wishes to the board and the incoming CEO under the guidance of new leadership.
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