BHA appoints Alan Switzer as new Chief Financial Officer

Anchal Verma November 21, 2024

SiGMA news

BHA appoints Alan Switzer as new Chief Financial Officer

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has appointed Alan Switzer as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). A seasoned finance and sports governance expert, Switzer as CFO will lead the organisation’s financial operations while spearheading industry-wide initiatives for the sport’s long-term financial sustainability.

With over 25 years at Deloitte, including a prominent role in its Sports Business Group, Switzer brings a wealth of experience to the BHA. Having served as interim CFO since August 2024, his appointment marks a critical step towards addressing British racing’s financial challenges.

Strengthening the BHA’s financial framework

Switzer will oversee the BHA’s financial strategy, providing guidance to the Board, Executive team, and Audit Committee. His responsibilities include ensuring the organisation’s financial health while delivering high-quality services to industry participants.

BHA CEO, Julie Harrington, while taking about Switzer’s appointment said, “Alan has worked closely with the BHA Board, Executive and senior leaders from across the industry over several years – and has been immersed in the funding, governance, structures and operating models of British racing for almost the entirety of his career.

“He is widely respected and brings a wealth of commercial experience from across racing and the sporting sector more generally. His ability to build strong relationships, coupled with a proven track record of success, will continue to be a significant asset.

“Not only will Alan seek to ensure that the BHA remains on a sound financial footing so that it can continue to provide good value and high-quality services for participants, but he will also lead cross-industry efforts to look at our income and funding models and how we can make better use of resources.”

Switzer’s passion for horseracing

Reflecting on his appointment Switzer said, “I’m delighted to be appointed to the Chief Financial Officer role. I have worked with the BHA and British racing throughout my career, and have huge admiration for the knowledge, experience and passion that exists across the organisation and wider racing industry.

“British racing’s financial challenges are well documented, with the sport facing significant headwinds and not always best served by the fragmented and complex nature of our funding model.

“But these problems are far from insurmountable, especially if we can commit to working collectively in the long-term interests of the sport. As someone who wants to see racing not only survive, but thrive, I look forward to playing my part to support the sport we all love,” Switzer added.

Switzer’s passion for horseracing extends beyond his professional expertise. As a racing enthusiast and club member, he shares a personal commitment to the sport’s success.