New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has further strengthened its senior team with three key appointments, following an extensive global and local search to secure the best talent for the future of the sport.
Newly named General Manager – Racing, Mitch Lamb, brings over 25 years of experience across international racing, wagering and media markets. Lamb’s leadership has powered growth at OlyBet in Europe, Tabcorp, William Hill and Sky Channel, with a proven track record in audience growth, content innovation and building high-performing teams.
Joining him is Zac Reynolds, appointed General Manager - Brand Experience, Communications & Industry Promotion. Reynolds is a seasoned marketing leader with nearly two decades in global horse racing and sports wagering, including senior roles at Tabcorp, Sportingbet, Churchill Downs, BlueBet and bet365. He has also founded two successful agencies in the US, delivering innovative, digitally led fan engagement strategies
Charlotte Mills has been appointed Racing Consultant (12-month term). Mills brings over a decade of executive experience from Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA), where she served as Chief Racing Officer and led on animal welfare, racing operations, industry engagement, and national strategy.
“These appointments follow a rigorous search - both here in New Zealand and internationally - to ensure we have the right people in the right roles,” said NZTR Chief Executive Officer, Matt Ballesty.
“Our industry needs bold decisions and a relentless focus on engaging participants, challenging the status quo, and growing our fan base. These leaders bring world-class expertise, proven results, and a passion for racing that will help secure the future of New Zealand Thoroughbred racing.”
These appointments complete a recent management restructure that also includes the appointment of General Manager - Strategy and Transformation, Dan Smith and General Manager - Welfare and Industry Capability, Sam Fursdon.
To further sharpen its racing strategy, NZTR is also establishing a Racing Think Tank to guide programming, the racing calendar, and the national pattern. The wider industry will have an opportunity to provide input, with more details to come.
Lamb and Reynolds will relocate full-time to Cambridge, while Mills will split her time between New Zealand and Australia in her support role.
“Supporting and growing local capability remains a key priority – we're building a team that will help our sport prosper for generations to come,” Ballesty added.