Racing Victoria chief executive Bernard Saundry will stand down at the end of the year.
Saundry advised the RV board on Thursday at its monthly meeting of his intention to conclude his tenure with the principal racing authority at the conclusion of 2016.
Saundry will end a 14-year term with Racing Victoria in December 2016, having been promoted from chief operating officer to chief executive in November 2012.
“After a long and enjoyable 14 years with Racing Victoria, I have made the decision that now is an appropriate time for change both for the organisation and for my family and I,” Saundry said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working within the Victorian thoroughbred racing industry and believe that the time is now right for a new chief executive to lead the implementation of our next strategic plan with Victorian racing in a strong position for the future.
“I will forever retain fond memories of all the hard-working participants, passionate fans and tireless administrators whom I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work alongside during my time at Racing Victoria.
“I have agreed to remain on to the end of this year to assist the Board in its search for a new chief executive and to ensure a smooth period of transition for the organisation and wider industry.
“There remain a number of key projects around infrastructure, wagering, governance and integrity that I’m keen to progress to ensure that the industry is best placed to realise its future growth strategies.
“As such, it will remain business as usual for myself and Racing Victoria throughout the remainder of 2016.”
During his tenure as chief executive Saundry has overseen a significant turnaround in RV’s financial health from a position of debt to one of strength, which has enabled significant increases in returns to the industry to enable its future success.
He has also led a new media rights strategy that now sees Victorian thoroughbred racing as the only sporting code in Australia with its own 24/7 free-to-air television channel, Racing.com.
RV chairman David Moodie paid tribute to Saundry and thanked him for his many years of valued service.
“On behalf of the board, I wish to thank Bernard for his outstanding service to Racing Victoria and the Victorian thoroughbred racing industry over the past 14 years,” Moodie said.
“No one could ever question Bernard’s commitment and dedication to the task and his desire to see Victorian racing grow and prosper for the benefit of all. His contribution will always be valued.
“We are pleased that Bernard will continue in his position until the end of the year to assist in the transition to our next chief executive and the start of another chapter in the history of Racing Victoria.”
– racing.com
