British Horseracing Authority Appoints Acting CEO

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has named Brant Dunshea as acting CEO as the search continues for a permanent successor to Julie Harrington.

Harrington announced her departure in June after four years as CEO. Her term concludes at the end of 2024, with Dunshea stepping in as interim leader.

Dunshea is currently the BHA’s chief regulatory officer, a position he has held since April 2018. He initially joined the Authority in 2015 as head of raceday operations and later became director of integrity and regulatory operations.

Before joining the BHA, Dunshea spent over seven years at Harness Racing Victoria in Australia, where he served as general manager for integrity services and later as chief operating officer.

Dunshea will officially take over on a temporary basis in January, following Harrington’s departure on December 31st. The BHA aims to appoint a permanent replacement in the New Year.

Acting CEO Appointment Supports New BHA Chair

The BHA stated that this transition will allow the new BHA chair, Lord Allen of Kensington, to participate in the CEO recruitment process.

The announcement of Harrington’s departure coincided with the news that Joe Saumarez Smith would also be stepping down as chair. Lord Allen was appointed as his replacement last month, effective from June 1, 2025. Smith will remain in his current role until the end of May.

Lord Allen has extensive experience in the financial, commercial, governmental, broadcast, international, and sports sectors. He currently serves as chairman and trustee of the Invictus Games Foundation.

His previous sporting roles include leading London’s bid for the 2012 Olympics and serving as a board director on the organizing committee. He also chaired the Manchester Commonwealth Games from 2000 to 2003, for which he received a CBE.

Outside of sports, Lord Allen was a chief advisor to the home office from 2006 to 2008.

Gambling Commission Also Reveals Leadership Changes

The BHA is not the only regulatory body in Britain related to betting experiencing leadership changes. Last week, it was announced that Marcus Boyle will be leaving his position as chairman of the Gambling Commission after more than three years.