Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) is chartered to operate autonomously of government in managing the strategic and commercial development of harness racing in NSW. The Controlling Body conducts the regulatory functions of the harness racing industry in NSW with particular commitment to integrity and animal welfare. HRNSW operates under the Harness Racing Act 2009, HRNSW and regulates approximately 480 race meetings annually.
HRNSW is seeking to appoint a highly motivated leader to the full-time position of Chairman of Stewards, based in Sydney.
The position reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with close liaison with the Integrity Manager, and is responsible for the management and operation of the HRNSW Stewards Panel ensuring that harness racing in the State occurs professionally, safely and with the highest level of integrity. This is a unique and challenging opportunity for a career Steward to contribute to one of the leading harness racing jurisdictions in the world.
The successful applicant will be required to undertake the following tasks:
-
Manage the supervision and control of all harness meetings conducted within NSW;
-
Provide strategic support and policy advice to the CEO;
-
Chair harness meetings within NSW;
-
Conduct and oversee investigations and non-raceday inquiries;
-
Prosecute the defence of Steward’s decisions before the Racing Appeals Tribunal;
-
Maintain effective working relationships with industry stakeholder groups and race clubs, as well as external partners and agencies;
-
Manage the day to day operations of the Stewards Division, including rostering;
-
Manage and promote HRNSW’s equine welfare strategies;
-
Provide leadership to, and set standards within, the Stewards Panel;
-
Mentor and assist in the education and development of Stewards;
-
Contribute to regulation and rule development through Harness Racing Australia;
-
Communicate effectively with licensed persons; and
-
Considerable travel is required.
The successful applicant should demonstrate the following attributes:
- Strong leadership and the ability to manage the day to day operations of a Stewards Division;
- At least five (5) years experience as a Steward in the racing industry with a comprehensive understanding of the Rules, including their application;
- Advanced ability to conduct investigations, analyse data and to draw appropriate conclusions;
- Commitment to the highest standards of equine welfare;
- Commitment to ensuring that Stewards demonstrate integrity and operate in a fair, honest and transparent manner;
- Commitment to working in a team environment and adherence to the HRNSW Staff Policy Manual and Code of Conduct;
- Self motivated and the ability to work within tight deadlines and with a high degree of accuracy;
- Proven ability to work under pressure, and manage change;
- Effective written and verbal communications skills, including the ability to consult, motivate and develop staff, and industry stakeholders;
- Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with industry partners and external agencies;
- Ability to resolve conflict;
- An understanding of WH&S policy and risk management;
- Demonstrated understanding of relevant legislation and legal procedures pursuant to Appeals;
- High level of computer literacy with particular regard to MS Office (specifically Excel) and Word;
- A satisfactory National Police Report and HRNSW probity report; and
- The ability to obtain and maintain a NSW drivers licence
HRNSW is an equal opportunity employer.
A remuneration package commensurate with the position will be provided.
Written applications should be forwarded to gloch@hrnsw.com.au by close of business on Friday, 24 March. 2017.
Telephone inquiries are welcome to Graham Loch, HRNSW Chairman of Stewards on (02) 9722 6628.
