Russell Ferris Named Managing Director of Racecourse Media Group
Racecourse Media Group (RMG) has officially appointed Russell Ferris, the current CEO of Weatherbys, as its new managing director. This transition will take effect on August 18, heralding a new chapter for RMG, which oversees media rights for 61 racecourses across Britain and Ireland.
Ferris has an impressive background in the horseracing sector, having led Weatherbys since September 2019. The organization is renowned for offering a variety of essential services to the horseracing community, including key contributions to horse breeding approvals. His experience is further enriched by his previous roles, such as chief executive of the Weatherbys General Stud Book and operations director, bringing a breadth of knowledge that will surely benefit RMG.
Before his tenure at Weatherbys, Ferris expanded his expertise in the industry as a director at At The Races, a dedicated horseracing channel, along with managing Limerick Racecourse in Ireland and serving as general manager at Scarvagh House Stud, a well-known National Hunt stud farm.
Vision for Enhanced Engagement
Ferris is eager to bring a fresh perspective to RMG, emphasizing his aim to elevate the sport of horseracing in terms of engagement and global outreach. “Joining RMG is an exciting opportunity, and I look forward to contributing to its pivotal role within the horseracing landscape,” Ferris remarked. He expressed confidence in RMG’s mission to enhance the sport’s attractiveness and accessibility, paving the way for a promising future.
Nick Mills, who assumed the role of CEO of RMG last November, welcomed Ferris into the team, viewing him as a vital asset to drive the organization’s growth. “Russell is a well-respected figure in the industry, and I believe his extensive knowledge and passion will propel RMG to new heights,” Mills stated. He emphasized Ferris’s role in integrating commercial and broadcast initiatives, aiming to boost innovation and revenue.
Leadership Shifts in Horseracing
Ferris’s appointment aligns with a broader trend of leadership changes within the horseracing sector. Just days prior, the Jockey Club announced the selection of Jim Mullen, the former CEO of Ladbrokes-Coral, as its new group CEO, set to start in June. Mullen’s extensive background in the industry, including his leadership roles at Reach and William Hill, positions him well for this new challenge.
The recent leadership evolutions signal a transformative period in the horseracing industry, with fresh insights and strategies expected to shape its future. As Ferris prepares to step into his new role, stakeholders across the sector are eager to see how his leadership will impact RMG and the wider horseracing community.