Changes are afoot at the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association.
“Like a lot of organisations in this day and age we have to reposition ourselves in the marketplace to be better placed going forward, without losing sight of the fact that we are still a key player in the thoroughbred Industry by representing the breeders,” president John Fokerd said.
“Over the next few months, we will relocate to shared premises in Hamilton with New Zealand Thoroughbred Marketing alongside the Te Rapa racecourse.”
A new business and operations development manager will be appointed and some administrative and support services will be shared with NZTM. A new part-time chief executive will also be appointed to work in Hamilton.
“In this new digital age we feel the need to look for skills that are more appropriate to conducting business in the modern world today,” Fokerd said.
“After 23 years of outstanding service to the NZTBA, our current CEO Michael Martin will be leaving his position in mid-September and our office manager Nicola Griffiths will remain with us until the end of October while we transition to the offices in Hamilton.”
“During his time with the Association, Michael has worked very effectively for the New Zealand breeder, he has been a real champion for the cause and our Association will be forever grateful for his input.
“He has served with integrity under six presidents including Ross Finlayson, Arthur Ormond, John Aubrey, Peter Hutt, Peter Francis and myself. Michael is well respected by all the many sector groups, industry committees, politicians and lobbyists he has worked alongside on behalf of our Association.”