Racing Victoria has announced a major revamp to its executive team with Vaughn Lynch, Peter Betson and Janelle Helleur appointed to various key roles, while Paul Bloodworth will step up to the elevated position of head of racing.
Aaron Morrison promised an executive refresh when he was appointed as Racing Victoria chief executive in August, with several key positions vacant.
Lynch, the Racing SA chief executive, announced his pending departure from that organisation on Wednesday, opting to return to Victoria.
He will assume the role of chief operating officer, previously held by Morrison before his promotion, and will oversee key functions, including wagering and racing.
Before his time at Racing SA, Lynch was formerly chief executive of Tasracing and has held senior positions with Harness Racing Victoria and Greyhound Racing Victoria.
Betson, whose most recent role has been as Victoria’s deputy secretary of sport and experience economy, has extensive government experience and will fulfil the role of executive general manager, strategy and corporate services.
He will commence his role in late November and will focus on strategy and projects, technology, finance, and corporate affairs.
Helleur has worked with Racing Victoria since 2018 and has been in various HR roles, most recently as general manager of people and culture. Her new executive role will be titled executive general manager, people and performance.
Lynch, Betson and Helleur will join Morrison, Jamie Stier (executive general manager, integrity services), Michelle Fielding (executive general manager, legal, risk and compliance) and Jamie McGuinness (executive general manager, infrastructure and clubs) on a new-look RV executive leadership team.
The role of executive general manager of racing, held by Matt Welsh before his departure in August, will no longer feature on the executive team. Lynch will be the executive responsible for racing.
However, Bloodworth’s role has been elevated and he will now serve as head of racing, overseeing all racing operations functions, handicapping and participant and stakeholder engagement.
Tim Rowe
Bloodworth has been at Racing Victoria since 2007, the last six as general manager of international and racing operations.
“Today’s announcement marks the first step in an evolution of RV to adapt to a changing landscape and best service Victorian racing,” Morrison said.
“As part of our commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and aligning RV for future success, we are implementing a new executive structure.
Morrison said the changes would enhance RV’s industry experience and leadership capabilities, streamline decision-making, and “foster greater collaboration across departments, and ensure we remain agile in achieving our objectives”.
“We’re delighted to welcome people with a great understanding and appreciation of racing’s unique ecosystem in Vaughn Lynch and Peter Betson, whilst recognising Janelle Helleur and Paul Bloodworth from within,” he said.
“These appointments help us position Victorian racing for long-term success, bringing valuable skills and experience to the organisation whilst facilitating improved engagement and collaboration with our stakeholders and participants.
“Today’s announcement marks the first milestone in the review of the structure, resources and operations of the broader RV group businesses.
“This work continues with a review of our media businesses underway to ensure alignment with RV and industry objectives and that we’re leveraging our assets to maximum benefit.”
