BHA Appoint Two New Directors in Jones and Johnston

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has strengthened its Board with the appointment of two new Directors in the shape of Nicholas Jones, appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director, and racehorse trainer Mark Johnston, appointed as the Horsemen’s Member Nominated Director.

Additionally, Justin Wadham moves from Johnston’s new position to become a third Independent Non-Executive Director, with all the appointments receiving unanimous support of the Nominations Committee, current Board members and the Authority’s four Member organisations.

Nicholas Jones is a Steward of the Jockey Club and owns Coln Valley Stud near Cirencester where he has nine mares and also several horses in training. He was a Managing Director and Vice Chairman of investment bank Lazard until June 2010.

Mark Johnston is well known as one of the country’s leading flat trainers. He is also a veterinary surgeon by profession, having qualified from Glasgow University Veterinary School in 1983 and he worked in general practice for three years before obtaining a licence to train.

Paul Roy, Chairman of the BHA, stated: “These two new appointments bring a broad range of skills and experience to an already experienced Board. Nicholas has spent years in senior positions in the worlds of finance and betting. As a breeder and owner, and a former director of one of Britain’s premier racecourses, he understands the sport from many viewpoints and I am delighted that he has agreed to become a Director.

“Mark needs little introduction and he has strong views on a wide range of subjects, It is testament to his passion for the sport and for the horse that he is finding the time to take up this position. His experience and knowledge will be an asset to the Board.

Nicholas Jones said: “It is a privilege to join the Board of the regulator of Britain’s second biggest sport and to help with the challenges ahead.

“Apart from the BHA’s continuing role in ensuring the highest standards of integrity in racing, there is the need to implement reform of decision making structures within the industry; the racing industry must be an attractive sport in which to participate and must preserve its international competitiveness.”

Mark Johnston added: “I think it is vital in any business to have a very strong understanding of the product and I hope I can bring this to the BHA board. I am looking forward to the challenge.”