Racing Operations Manager

Overview

We're looking for a sharp, experienced and capable Racing Operations Manager to take the reins of the Racing Operations Department at Racing SA.

This is a leadership opportunity with real ownership in a unique role, heading up a small operations team where the planning, management, delivery and continuous improvement of Racing SA's thoroughbred racing operations and race programming is what you will be doing.

Why Racing SA?

Our sport, thoroughbred racing, is at the heart of what we do. "Racing Together" means we are continually building on an industry that makes thoroughbred racing a success in South Australia and one we all want to be a part of.

At Racing SA, we offer a range of benefits to our employees; we understand and support a healthy work/life balance and that birthdays are about celebrating with family and friends – that's why we offer our employees birthday leave.

We pride ourselves on work flexibility, whilst working hard in return and celebrating the 'wins'. We're realistic in that our work sometimes sees us committed on days when others may have time off, but our team is proud of and embraces the product we deliver on race days.

The Role:

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you'll step straight into overseeing the development and management of South Australia's thoroughbred racing calendar, ensuring the integrity, quality and sustainability of the racing product. The position provides leadership to the Racing Operations Team and applies data insights and analytics to support evidence‑based decision making and continuous improvement.

This role requires someone with strong skills in stakeholder engagement; that being across clubs, participants, wagering partners and service providers, and someone who demonstrates leadership aligned with Racing SA's values, governance framework and operational standards.

About You

We're looking for an experienced leader who has an eye for detail and someone who thrives on working closely with a broad range of industry stakeholders for the greater good of operational and racing outcomes.

Ideally, you'll bring with you:

Educational / Vocational Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Management, Commerce, Analytics or a related discipline preferred.

Experience and Knowledge

• Five (5) or more years' experience in the thoroughbred racing industry or in related industries such as wagering.
• Strong understanding of racing operations, race programming principles, handicapping and the racing and wagering environment.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management experience.
• Sound computer literacy skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and an understanding of Racing Australia's Single National System.
• Experience analysing and applying data to improve operational and racing outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to engage and influence a broad range of industry stakeholders.

Personal Abilities / Aptitudes

• Ability to work effectively within a dynamic, operational environment.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and decision‑making capability.
• Attention to detail.
• High‑level communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities under operational pressures.
• Demonstrates a flexible, proactive and positive approach in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintains conduct that upholds the integrity of the thoroughbred racing industry.
• Enthusiasm and passion for the racing industry.

Some Additional Requirements You Should Know

• Office hours are generally 8.30am – 5.00pm.
• Given the seniority of the role and nature of the industry, work undertaken outside of core hours and some weekend work is expected.
• Racing SA is committed to providing flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
• While this position is primarily office based, the role will require you to travel regularly to metropolitan and regional race meetings, industry events, and stakeholder engagements as necessary to fulfil the operational requirements of the position.
• The incumbent must be willing and able to undertake intrastate travel, including occasional travel outside standard business hours, weekends, and public holidays in line with racing schedules and operational demands.

As a condition of employment, a fully maintained company motor vehicle is provided for business use in accordance with applicable company policies.

In closing, you'll get to work collaboratively across Racing SA to ensure alignment between racing operations, integrity, commercial outcomes and organisational strategy, not to mention your strength in maintaining strong professional relationships with external stakeholders to support the operational delivery of racing.

Racing SA is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace, whilst giving back to our employees and to the entire thoroughbred racing industry in South Australia.

Sound like you?

Applications should be submitted with a cover letter and resume outlining your relevant skills and experience by 5.00pm, Friday 12th June 2026 to hr•@racingsa.com.au.

Further enquiries regarding this role are welcomed in writing at the same email address or by calling (08) •••• ••00, 8am - 4pm Monday - Friday.