NYTHA Relaunches Search for E.D.

[Wandering Eyes]

The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association has relaunched its search for a new Executive Director.

NYTHA board member Terry Finley said that it was important that the net that the organization casts is wide enough to reflect the importance of the position.

“I think that the one thing we want to be sure of is that every qualified candidate in horse racing is made aware of this great opportunity,” said Finley. “That’s one. And we want the right person. That’s key. We haven’t rushed in and I give the NYTHA board credit. We’ve really taken our time with it.”

The job, he argues, is for the largest and most prestigious local horsemen’s organization in the country, and comes at a time when racing is facing myriad issues.

“Let’s face it,” Finley said. “The coming years are pretty darn important to our industry for any number of reasons. We have a situation with the environment we’re in now where the New York horsemen are in a position to have a really strong voice. I know that probably sounds a bit parochial, but it’s true. We’re the largest, we’re the best-funded, and as New York racing goes, the vast majority of the rest of the country goes. Having the right person in this position is key. This person is going to have a great opportunity to really make a mark and to make a difference in New York.

“Aside from the existential challenges we face, we also face challenges in a competitive environment, and we’re all in this together– the horsemen, the trainers, the owners and the staff. There are challenges, but it’s also a very, very exciting time. It’s the premier job in the country, and it’s interesting, intriguing, fun and challenging all worked into one.”

Finley said that the organization had effectuated “real, substantive changes” in the past few years. “The work that our leader Joe Appelbaum has done to reduce workmen’s compensation costs by 36 percent in just a few years is an example. Our objective is to make operating a racing stable in New York more attractive in the coming years, and part of the executive director’s job is to make sure that the people around the country know that. This is a unique position in that you have a shot to work on the backside, make life better for the men and women on the backside, while at the same time engaging in and working with the NYRA staff and board on the big issues that we face, as well as in conjunction with the Gaming Commission and industry organizations. The E.D.’s role in New York gives you an opportunity to have a hand in every aspect of the business.

“If you want, at this stage in your career, an interesting and challenging role, where you can truly make a difference, send us your resume.”

For more on the position including application information, visit http://www.thoroughbreddailynews.com/careers/.

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