Independent Chair Ontario Racing (Independent Contractor Position)

Woodbine Entertainment•Etobicoke, ON

About The Position

Woodbine Entertainment Group, with nearly 150 years of history, is the largest operator of professional horseracing in Canada. The company is pursuing a new vision to deliver thrilling racing, dining, and entertainment experiences, aiming to be a world-leader in horseracing and a diverse entertainment facility. This position is for an Independent Chair of Ontario Racing, engaged as an independent contractor, not a direct employee. Ontario Racing is the province's representative horse racing industry association, responsible for executing a Long-Term Funding Agreement with the Province of Ontario and OLG. Its initiatives include directing breed improvement programs, setting race schedules and purses, attracting new owners, building a fan base, and connecting the industry with government and the public. These efforts are supported by the Board of Directors, a committee system, and the staff of Ontario Racing Management Inc. (ORM), a subsidiary of Woodbine Entertainment Group.

Requirements

Deep industry knowledge and experience.
Strategic focus and government advocacy skills.
Substantial senior leadership experience, preferably at the CEO or Board of Directors level.
Experience managing stakeholder relationships.
Ability to see the big picture and clarify key issues.
Communication and interpersonal skills to build consensus.
Energetic commitment to the Ontario horse racing industry —Thoroughbred, Standardbred and Quarter Horse.
Must be an individual who is not in a relationship that could reasonably be expected to interfere with the exercise of independent judgement in relation to the business affairs of Ontario Racing.
Cannot, while acting as Independent Chair, be a shareholder, partner, member, director, officer, or employee of any member or affiliate of Ontario Racing.

Responsibilities

Build and promote productive relationships with industry stakeholders.
Provide strategic leadership to the horse racing industry in Ontario.
Liaise with government representatives in support of the industry's vision.
Build and maintain strong, productive relationships across Ontario's horse racing industry.
Foster collaboration among racetracks, horsepersons’ organizations, breeders' associations, regulators, and other industry participants.
Facilitate constructive dialogue and help align diverse stakeholder interests around common strategic objectives.
Serve as a visible and respected ambassador for Ontario Racing and the broader industry.
Provide strategic leadership to the Board and the industry to shape and advance a unified vision for the future of horse racing in Ontario.
Assist in defining and advancing long-term industry priorities that strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of horse racing in Ontario.
Support industry-wide initiatives that promote innovation, growth, and stakeholder engagement.
Represent and promote the Ontario horse racing industry to government and other external stakeholders (e.g. media, the public).
Build and maintain effective relationships with the OLG, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), and other key public-sector partners.
Advocate for policies, programs, and investments that support the long-term success of Ontario's horse racing industry.
Represent the industry's interests in discussions with government and external stakeholders.
Chair Board meetings and guide productive, strategic discussions.
Promote effective governance practices, accountability, and informed decision making.
Build consensus among Board members while maintaining an independent and objective perspective.
Support Board committees and contribute strategic insight across organizational priorities.