Racing administrators James Heddo and Steve McMahon will join the executive team of the Australian Turf Club.
The chief executive of the Gosford Race Club, Heddo will become the executive general manager racing while McMahon will leave his post as the NSW Trainers Association chief executive to take up the new role of executive general manager strategic development.
Heddo will lead the ATC Racing Department with his duties to include racing programs, managing industry relationships, growing wagering, and overseeing the development and management of the club’s racing and training surfaces and stables.
He starts the role on February 22.
McMahon, who starts on February 1, will work alongside chief executive Darren Pearce, building the strategic plan for Sydney racing and delivering key projects, both corporate and racing, to strengthen the ATC’s business.
As well as his role with the NSWTA, McMahon has been chairman of the Racing Industry Consultative Group for more than three years.
He has more than 15 years experience in senior business and government roles, including as a councillor and mayor of Hurstville City Council, and as a key advisor to several NSW Government ministers.
Pearce said on Thursday the club’s board was delighted to have secured two executives with such passion and experience in racing.
“The appointments will help to continue to grow Sydney racing as the strongest and most competitive centres in the world,” Pearce said.
“Both James and Steve are not only highly talented executives, but they have built great reputations and long experience within a wide circle of the racing industry.
“(James) will be able to use his great knowledge of racing and relationships within the industry as the ATC continues to put more surpluses into racing, and as tax parity begins to take effect this year.
“Steve has a great passion and commitment to the racing industry, and his skills will be invaluable as the ATC not only grows and invests more into racing, but other parts of our business.”
