**British Horseracing Authority Announces Interim CEO Appointment**
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has selected Brant Dunshea to assume the role of interim CEO as they continue the search for Julie Harrington’s permanent replacement, a process now projected to extend into 2025.
Julie Harrington is set to vacate her position at the close of December and will temporarily be succeeded by BHA’s chief regulatory officer until a new CEO is appointed. According to the BHA, this interim arrangement allows their newly named chair, former ITV CEO Lord Allen of Kensington, to have an active part in the selection process.
The organization has stressed that this approach was premeditated and has not disrupted the timeline for appointing a new CEO. As of 1 June 2025, Lord Allen will officially take over as BHA chair and is currently collaborating with incumbent chair Joe Saumarez Smith to ensure a seamless transition.
Brant Dunshea has been integral to the BHA for nearly ten years, beginning his journey with them in March 2015 as head of raceday operations. Previously, he led Harness Racing Victoria before securing a role as director of integrity and regulatory operations in October 2016. By April 2018, he had been elevated to the position of chief regulatory officer.
Harrington made her decision to resign public in June, and the BHA initiated their recruitment efforts by August. They have engaged The MBS Group, an executive search firm, to assist in the recruitment process.
The BHA commented, “After Julie Harrington’s term concludes on 31 December 2024, our current chief regulatory officer, Brant Dunshea, will step in as acting CEO while we complete the recruitment process.”
They further noted Dunshea’s extensive experience in the racing industry in Australia, highlighting his two decades in senior roles and his widespread respect within both domestic and international racing circles.
Additionally, in November, BHA announced the appointment of Alan Switzer, previously of Deloitte, as their new CFO. Switzer had been filling the CFO position on an interim basis since August 2024.
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**Originally posted on EGR Intel**
