British Horseracing Authority appoints interim CEO as leadership transitions begin

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced that Brant Dunshea will take over as interim CEO starting January 1, 2025, following the departure of Julie Harrington, who steps down after four years in the role.  

Dunshea, who has served as the BHA’s Chief Regulatory Officer since 2018, will lead the organization temporarily while a search for a permanent chief executive is finalized. The recruitment process will be overseen by the newly appointed BHA chair, Lord Allen of Kensington. Harrington’s term concludes on December 31, 2024.  

Dunshea joined the BHA in 2015 as head of raceday operations and was promoted to director of integrity and regulatory operations in 2016 before assuming his current role. Prior to his tenure in British horseracing, Dunshea worked at Harness Racing Victoria in Australia, serving as General Manager of Integrity Services and later as Chief Operating Officer.  
 
Harrington’s departure marks a significant leadership transition at the BHA, coinciding with the chairmanship change from Joe Saumarez Smith to Lord Allen of Kensington, effective June 2025. Lord Allen, an experienced executive with a background in sports, government, and international business, has been tasked with overseeing the selection of a permanent CEO early next year.  

Lord Allen has gained experience in the financial and commercial sectors, along with government, broadcasting, international corporations, and sports. His previous roles include chairing the Manchester Commonwealth Games from 2000 to 2003, for which he was awarded a CBE.  

The BHA is not alone in its leadership shakeup. Last week, the Gambling Commission confirmed that its chairman, Marcus Boyle, would step down after more than three years in the role.