British Horseracing Authority appoint CFO to lead financial reform, drive collaboration and support racing’s future growth.
Challenge
The BHA was entering a crucial phase of change, with ambitions to strengthen collaboration across the industry and secure long-term financial sustainability.
The creation of the Chief Financial Officer role reflected a wider modernisation agenda, with an emphasis on strategic clarity, governance, and stakeholder engagement. The position required someone capable of managing the organisation’s internal financial operations while working closely with racing’s key stakeholders on national funding structures and shared commercial priorities.
Given the complexity, profile and sensitivity of the role, the BHA required a specialist partner to identify and attract high-level talent, including individuals not actively exploring new opportunities. EISG was engaged following a recommendation and competitive tender process.
“This wasn’t about hiring a traditional CFO. We needed someone who could bring sharp financial leadership, but also engage with the wider industry and bring ideas that could respectfully challenge the status quo.”
Hiring Manager, British Horseracing Authority
With the brief demanding a unique blend of financial leadership, sporting knowledge and cross-industry credibility, the search required a research-led, tailored approach to ensure reach and rigour.
Solution
Led by specialist consultant Tom Beswick, EISG delivered a full executive search process that combined proactive market mapping with strategic outreach to senior financial leaders across sport, business and governance. The focus was on identifying individuals with experience in complex, stakeholder-driven environments and the capacity to navigate the intricacies of British racing.
“This was a newly created, high-impact role that needed to be carefully introduced to the market. We combined proactive outreach with tailored candidate packs to showcase the opportunity in the strongest way.”
Tom Beswick, Consultant – EISG
A bespoke candidate brochure showcased the BHA as an organisation of purpose and influence, with a clear mandate to lead on behalf of the sport. Strong employer brand messaging and clarity on the scope of the role helped attract high-calibre candidates from across sectors.
The process included two detailed screening stages to assess both technical and cultural fit, ensuring that shortlisted candidates were able to demonstrate strategic thinking, sector awareness and a collaborative mindset.
Outcome
Following a comprehensive and competitive process, the successful candidate brought over two decades of experience in senior financial and governance roles across the sports and professional services sectors.
Widely respected across the industry, the individual was recognised for their commercial acumen, collaborative leadership style and ability to build trust in complex stakeholder environments.
Their approach struck the right balance between bringing fresh ideas and building on the traditions that define the sport. With a strong appreciation for horseracing’s heritage, they demonstrated how progress could be achieved in a way that respected the sport’s foundations while opening up new possibilities.
The process was completed in just 8 weeks, delivering a senior financial leader capable of driving transformation, strengthening industry relationships and supporting the future growth of British racing.
Looking to strengthen your leadership team?
Tom Bewsick has over 10 years’ experience placing C-suite and Director-level candidates into some of the most respected sporting organisations worldwide.
Whether you’re building board-level capability, navigating funding reform or preparing for growth, Tom can help you identify and secure the right leadership talent.
📩 tom@eisg.com
🌐 For more information about EISG, visit www.eisg.com