Acting BHA chief executive Brant Dunshea has today taken up a permanent role at the sports governing body. Dunshea has held the position in an acting capacity since the departure of Julie Harrington in December 2024.
The appointment comes shortly after the resignation of Lord Allen as Chair this week. Dunshea has held multiple positions at the BHA, beginning as Head of Raceday Operations in 2015. He was then appointed as the Chief Regulatory Officer in 2018, before taking up his permanent role as the CEO.
A statement on this latest BHA news on Thursday morning stated that Dunhsea was ‘delighted’ to take up the role.
Per the Racing Post, Dunshea added: “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 improvements in horse and human welfare.
“I know that the incredible team at the BHA shares my deep passion for our sport,” Dunshea continued. It is a huge privilege to be given this opportunity to lead such a knowledgeable and dedicated team.”
David Jones returns as interim chair
The BHA has also returned to his position as the interim chair. Jones also held the role between the departures of Joe Saumarez Smith and Lord Allen formally joining the BHA.
Jones said in a statement: “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. 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. I am delighted that the board has agreed to appoint Brant as the CEO. He has proven he is a dynamic and hugely respected leader. I look forward to working closely with Brant, the executive and the hard-working, dedicated team at the BHA.”
The BHA’s member organisations said the unanimously supported the decision to appoint Dunshea on a permanent basis.
They added: “This brings welcome stability for the BHA staff and the racing industry. At a time where the organisation is leading vital work aimed at growing our sport.
“We also thank David again for assuming the role of interim chair of the BHA.”