Jun Zhang to lead new-look Yulong after Cox departure

Yulong has moved swiftly to replace Vin Cox in the role of general manager of Yulong with Jun Zhang, the son-in-law of founder Zhang Yuesheng, stepping in with immediate effect.

Jun is married to April Zhang, the eldest daughter of the Yulong principal. April has been heavily involved with Yulong since its entry into Australia and is its director of finance.

Less than a week after Cox’s shock announcement that he would leave Yulong after just 15 months in the role, Yulong confirmed Jun has been appointed general manager.

“Jun has been an integral part of the business for a number of years as well as a familiar face on the racecourse, witnessing some of Yulong’s greatest days on the track this season,” Yulong said in a statement.

Jun said he was ready to step into the considerable shoes of Cox, one of the most experienced and revered figures in Australian bloodstock and breeding, having served as managing director of both Godolphin Australia and Magic Millions.  

“Having seen the positive impact Vin had in his time at Yulong, I am confident we can continue to build on this as we head towards the 2025 breeding season,” Jun said.

“I feel it is important as a company that we keep moving forward, and this week has given us an opportunity to learn and grow. The positions and duties of our current management staff will remain the same as they continue to drive the company towards further success.”

Vin Cox to depart Yulong over differences in ‘strategic direction and values’

Yulong general manager Vin Cox has handed in his six-month notice to the thoroughbred industry powerhouse, citing “differences in opinion on strategic direction and values”.

The StraightBren O’Brien

Jun assumes control with Yulong in a dominant position on the track, having won 11 Group 1s this season alone in Australia. It also boasts a formidable stallion roster and has recently acquired the rights to star three-year-old colts Private Harry and Angel Capital in stallion deals.

“I am excited to take the reins and lead the team as we seek to develop Mr Zhang’s vision and look forward to meeting you all very soon both at the sales and on the track,” he said.

Cox’s departure came via a short message sent to select media on March 27.

“I have given my (six) months’ notice of resignation from Yulong following differences in opinion on strategic direction and values,” Cox wrote.

“I want to thank the exceptional team and clients I have had the privilege to work with. I do not want to make any further comment.”

Zhang does Private Harry deal, Field to work with small breeders, Easter on internationals’ radar and NZ stallion stats

In this week’s Rowe On Monday, Tim Rowe delves into the Private Harry deal, checks in with Newgate Farm’s Henry Field, learns about the overseas contingent for the Easter sale, and explores some New Zealand numbers.

The StraightTim Rowe

Given Jun’s rapid promotion into the general manager role, it is pretty clear that Cox won’t be asked to serve out his six months’ notice.

His departure has sent the industry rumour mill into overdrive, but given the proximity to the announcement that Yulong had purchased into unbeaten sprinter Private Harry, it is assumed the strategic differences he alluded to were around bloodstock acquisition decisions.

“I feel it is important as a company that we keep moving forward, and this week has given us an opportunity to learn and grow. The positions and duties of our current management staff will remain the same as they continue to drive the company towards further success” – Jun Zhang

The Straight has since confirmed that Zhang Yuesheng conducted negotiations directly on that purchase.

Before Cox’s appointment in late 2023, Sam Fairgray was the spokesman for Yulong. He remains in the chief operating officer position under Jun.