Simon Cox appointed BHA chair

Business executive, owner-breeder and industry administrator Simon Cox has been appointed independent non-executive chair of the British Horseracing Authority, with his four-year term to begin on October 1.

Cox is a trustee of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, chairs the BHA’s Jump Pattern Committee and is a former Professional Jockeys Association board member, while also serving on the industry’s High Quality Horse group.

The owner of racehorses for more than 15 years, Cox breeds thoroughbreds from Shade Oak Stud.

Outside racing, Cox spent more than 30 years in the brewing industry, including as European president and chief executive of Molson Coors, where he oversaw a business with annual turnover of about £2 billion and 6500 employees.

“It is an honour to be appointed Chair of the British Horseracing Authority at such an important moment for racing and breeding,” Cox said.

Before taking up the role, Cox will meet with participants across racing, breeding and betting as the BHA looks to address the commercial and structural challenges facing the British thoroughbred industry.