Wagering executive and former journalist Karl deKroo is set to replace Tony Partridge as chief executive of the Brisbane Racing Club.
DeKroo was on Thursday unveiled as the new CEO by the BRC, which operates Queensland’s metropolitan racecourses Eagle Farm and Doomben, after spending the past five years with corporate bookmaking giant Entain.
He was the executive director of stakeholder engagement at Entain Australia and New Zealand, having also been the company’s chief commercial officer until his promotion to his latest role at the bookmaker.
Entain’s premier Australian bookmaking brand Ladbrokes is a sponsor of the BRC.
DeKroo, who worked at News Corp as a journalist and later as its marketing and commercial director prior to joining Entain, takes the reins as CEO during a pivotal period for the BRC, which is currently implementing a major Master Plan which includes the Ascot Green development.
“I am delighted to be joining the Brisbane Racing Club at a crucial juncture in its history,” deKroo said.
“It is going to be an exciting period as Queensland rides a wave of momentum and growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.
"I am acutely aware of the need to continue to upgrade key facilities, particularly at Eagle Farm and I look forward to executing the club’s strategic initiatives and Master Plan with the broader goals of enhancing racing’s profile, engaging new and existing members and ensuring its long-term prosperity.
"I am committed to preserving and enhancing the sport and ensuring that the BRC remains at the forefront of the industry both in Australia and internationally. I am a passionate horse racing fan, keen casual punter and a luckless but committed owner.”
DeKroo will start his new role on November 28. His predecessor Partridge, who had led the BRC for five years, resigned in July.
Confirmation by BRC chairman Neville Bell that the vacant CEO role had been filled comes as voting is open to fill three positions on the BRC board. Voting closes on October 15, a day prior to the club’s annual general meeting.
Bell is scheduled to step down as chairman in early 2025.
Bren O’Brien
