With almost 150 years of proud horseracing history, Woodbine Entertainment Group is the founding pioneer and largest operator of professional horseracing in Canada.
Building on our rich past, we are surging ahead to the future with an energized, new vision. Today we deliver the most thrilling and highest quality racing, dining and entertainment experiences to our visitors. In doing so, we remain a world-leader in horse-racing — and also among the most exciting and diverse entertainment facilities on the globe.
Please note that this position is not a direct employee position with Ontario Racing. The successful candidate will be engaged as an independent contractor and will not be hired as an employee of the Company.
By applying for this position, you acknowledge and understand that the role is offered on an independent contractor basis and that, if selected, you will not be considered an employee of the Company.
All candidates interested in the role please email your application to Gordon Thain – Executive Director Ontario racing at [email protected]
BACKGROUND:
The economic impact of the Ontario horse racing industry is estimated at $1.91 billion annually, with direct employment of an estimated 17,600 full time equivalent jobs involved as breeders, owners, horse people, racetrack personnel, and related employees, as well as those involved in various supporting industries. Additionally, the Ontario horse racing industry generates $329.8 million per year in Provincial taxes.
As the province’s representative horse racing industry association, Ontario Racing is responsible for execution of the Long-Term Funding Agreement signed with the Province of Ontario and Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) in 2018 and extended in 2026.
Among Ontario Racing’s initiatives are directing breed improvement programs, setting an annual program of races and purses, attracting new horse owners, building a fan base, and connecting the industry with government and the public. These initiatives are undertaken by the Board of Directors through the support of a robust committee system and the staff of Ontario Racing Management Inc. (ORM), a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodbine Entertainment Group.
ROLE AND REQUIREMENTS:
Working closely with the Ontario Racing Board of Directors, the Executive Director of ORM and the OLG, the Independent Chair is responsible for building and promoting productive relationships with industry stakeholders. The Independent Chair provides strategic leadership to the horse racing industry in Ontario and liaises with government representatives in support of this vision.
Fulfilling this role requires deep industry knowledge and experience as well as strategic focus and government advocacy skills. The successful candidate should have substantial senior leadership experience, preferably at the CEO or Board of Directors level, and experience managing stakeholder relationships. The ability to see the big picture and clarify key issues is essential, along with the communication and interpersonal skills to build consensus.
An energetic commitment to the Ontario horse racing industry —Thoroughbred, Standardbred and Quarter Horse — is required.
The Independent Chair must be an individual who is not in a relationship that could reasonably be expected to interfere with the exercise of independent judgement in relation to the business affairs of Ontario Racing, and cannot, while acting as Independent Chair, be a shareholder, partner, member, director, officer, or employee of any member or affiliate of Ontario Racing.
KEY FUNCTIONS OF THE ROLE:
Stakeholder Management:
Build and maintain strong, productive relationships across Ontario's horse racing industry
Foster collaboration among racetracks, horsepersons’ organizations, breeders' associations, regulators, and other industry participants
Facilitate constructive dialogue and help align diverse stakeholder interests around common strategic objectives
Serve as a visible and respected ambassador for Ontario Racing and the broader industry.
Strategic Leadership:
Provide strategic leadership to the Board and the industry to shape and advance a unified vision for the future of horse racing in Ontario
Assist in defining and advancing long-term industry priorities that strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of horse racing in Ontario
Support industry-wide initiatives that promote innovation, growth, and stakeholder engagement
Government Relations:
Represent and promote the Ontario horse racing industry to government and other external stakeholders (e.g. media, the public)
Build and maintain effective relationships with the OLG, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), and other key public-sector partners
Advocate for policies, programs, and investments that support the long-term success of Ontario's horse racing industry
Represent the industry's interests in discussions with government and external stakeholders
Governance:
Chair Board meetings and guide productive, strategic discussions
Promote effective governance practices, accountability, and informed decision making
Build consensus among Board members while maintaining an independent and objective perspective
Support Board committees and contribute strategic insight across organizational priorities
This is an opportunity to play a pivotal leadership role in one of Ontario's most significant agricultural and entertainment sectors. The Independent Chair will help unite stakeholders, influence industry strategy, and advocate for the continued growth and success of horse racing across the province.
Reason for Vacancy: Replacement
Salary: $75,000, this is not a guarantee of compensation. Final placement within depends on factors such as internal equity, market conditions, and the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
Be Yourself.
We believe differences should be valued and celebrated. By building diverse and inclusive teams, we strive to provide a more authentic and empowering work experience that unlocks the potential of our people. Regardless of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status, we believe everyone has the right to express their ideas, ambitions, and pursue their goals with confidence and integrity. Diversity breeds innovation. We want people to think differently. Our commitment is to build a culture that welcomes everyone and leverages their unique perspectives to be a great entertainment company that shares the thrill of horseracing experiences with the world.
