British Horseracing Authority names Brant Dunshea as permanent CEO
The move comes a day after the sudden resignation of Lord Charles Allen as chair.
UK.- Just one day after the sudden resignation of Lord Charles Allen as chair of The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), the body has confirmed the permanent appointment of Brant Dunshea as its chief executive officer. It’s also appointed David Jones as interim chair as it aims to move on from reported conflicts over proposed governance changes.
Dunshea has occupied the CEO position at British racing’s governing and regulatory body on an interim basis since December 2024 following the departure of Julie Harrington. He has held several senior positions since joining the organisation in March 2015 – he was chief regulatory officer prior to being appointed acting CEO.
As for the chairmanship, David assumes the role for a second time, having previously filled the position between when Joe Saumarez Smith stepped down on health grounds in January 2025 and Lord Allen formally joined the BHA in September.
He was appointed to the BHA Board in January 2021 as a senior independent director and has extensive experience of British racing and the regulation of the sport, including as a BHA steward for more than a decade.
Steps will now be taken to recruit a permanent chair.
Jones said: “While it is clearly regrettable that agreement could not be reached around governance reform, the sport’s leaders have recognised the need for change. I do believe this is possible, and we must all work to achieve it, in the interests of the sport and the livelihoods that depend on our industry.
“The process to recruit a permanent chair will commence shortly. My hope is that this can be achieved as quickly as possible. The BHA will continue to lead British racing with energy and integrity, and I am delighted that the Board has agreed to appoint Brant as the CEO.
“He has proved he is a dynamic and hugely respected leader, and I look forward to working closely with Brant, the Executive, and the hard-working, dedicated team at the BHA during a significant year for the sport.”
Dunshea said: “It is no secret that the sport has experienced a challenging period as it faces up to the process of change at a governance level, but I want to be clear that this has not stopped the BHA and the industry making important progress to safeguard the long-term health of British racing.
“The past year has seen growth in racecourse attendances, the success of the Axe The Racing Tax campaign, major initiatives to ensure more horses are raced and retained on our shores, and continued improvements in horse and human welfare.
“I know that the incredible team at the BHA shares my deep passion for our sport and is committed to securing a brighter and more sustainable future for our people and horses. It is a huge privilege to be given this opportunity to lead such a knowledgeable and dedicated team at a time of great opportunity for British racing.”
The BHA said the appointment would bring stability for BHA staff and the racing industry, at a time when the organisation is seeking to grow the sport and securing a sustainable future. It added: “While agreement could not be reached at this time on governance changes, senior leaders across the sport remain committed to working collectively to achieve reform that works in the best interests of British racing as a whole.”
