HRNZ appoints new Chief Executive Officer

Harness Racing New Zealand has appointed Brad Steele as its new Chief Executive, effective 1 July 2024.

Steele has for the past six years worked in a variety of senior roles for RACQ, the fastest growing bank in Queensland and before that held regional and lending management roles in the insurance and banking group Suncorp for over 16 years.

He has had a lifelong interest and involvement in harness racing. He is the current Chairman of Albion Park Harness Racing Club, was the former Chair of Queensland Harness Racing and a former Board member of Queensland Racing.

Announcing the appointment, Harness Racing New Zealand Chair Phil Holden said the Board was delighted the position had attracted someone of Steele’s calibre.

“Brad has a unique combination of a strong commercial skill set developed from 30 years’ experience in banking and finance in Queensland, and a passion for Harness Racing.”

“That background is a real asset given that he will take over at an important and exciting time for harness, with the new calendar and racing programme to deliver and the code funding arrangements with TABCORP to conclude.

“Importantly too, Brad is someone with strong relationship skills who is capable of building and evolving our strategic partnership with Entain.

Holden cautioned however that the amount of work ahead cannot be carried on the shoulders of one man.

“Taking this sport forward needs to be a team effort by all of us – the Board, the staff, clubs and the wider industry. I really cannot emphasise that enough,” he says.

Commenting on his appointment, Steele says he is extremely privileged to have been offered the HRNZ CEO role.

“I understand the great responsibility that comes with this role. It’s an exciting time as harness racing enters a new growth phase.”

For a copy of the media release click here