Greyhound Racing Victoria CEO resigns

[Wandering Eyes]

GRV today announced the resignation of the Chief Executive Officer Alan Clayton PSM, with effect from today.

In paying tribute to Alan’s tenure as CEO, GRV Chair Ms. Peita Duncan said: “Over the last six years Alan has reinvigorated and restructured the industry with unprecedented growth and revenue, along with a vision for it to be a vibrant, entertaining and thriving sport with animal welfare at its heart.

“The Board and I thank Alan for this direction and the significant contribution, leadership and collaborative efforts he has made, in particular greyhound rehoming, animal welfare and integrity.

“He has helped build Victorian greyhound racing into the world’s single biggest racing code in terms of annual races held. It is distinguished by more than 1300 race meetings a year and almost 16,000 races, along with marquee events like the VIC BRED Pink Diamond series and prize money of more than $63 million.

“During his tenure Alan has led his team in collaborative efforts with our 13 race clubs and more than 15,000 participants to address track safety, infrastructure, operating and governance frameworks, and health and safety issues of the greyhounds themselves.

“On behalf of the Board I would also like to thank Alan for his leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic journey which enabled the industry to not only maintain its race program, but also provide more opportunities for greyhounds of all ages and capabilities to race and to grow the year’s pool of prize money to record levels and other returns to participants.”

Mr Clayton (pictured)  said it had been a privilege to lead the industry out of its serious problems with the live baiting scandal and into a period where it is recognised globally for its races and meetings, its prize money, its growth in participants and the rehoming of a record number of greyhounds.

“We now have more than 3000 greyhounds a year rehomed through the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) with our industry and animal welfare partners. The welfare of greyhounds has been at the heart of everything I have done along with rebuilding the sport for future generations of participants and fans.

“I thank the Board for its support throughout my six years of leadership and know that I am leaving the organisation with very sound financial, governance and operational structures to thrive in the future.

“The staff have made a very valuable contribution to all of this, and I thank them also for their efforts, support and collaboration, along with that of all the participants and others I have met along the way.”

The GRV Board will immediately begin a national and international search for a replacement CEO.  Stuart Laing, GRV General Manager Customer and Commercial will undertake the role of CEO throughout this period.

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