Vivien Currie has been named Ascot’s new chief executive, succeeding Guy Henderson, who is retiring after a royal meeting next year.
Currie will leave her current role at Hamilton in April, where she has served as chief executive since 2008. She will work alongside Henderson during the preparations for the 2022 Royal Ascot meeting – the the eighth of Henderson’s term – taking place June 14-18.
During her time at Hamilton, she oversaw the construction of a £10 million on-site hotel at the Scottish site and was also vice-president of the Racecourses Association, before becoming non-executive director. of BHA from 2016 to 2019.
Currie said: “Leading the Hamilton Park business has been the most exciting phase of my career. I have been given so many opportunities to grow and develop the racecourse into a leisure resort. year-round racing and guest services conceived and built a new hotel on site for our racers and thousands of visitors to enjoy.
“I’m looking forward to this new, very exciting chapter at Ascot, but will forever remember the people I worked with and met during my incredible journey at Hamilton Park.”
Currie received her MBE in November for her services to racecourse management, business and philanthropy in a postponed ceremony for the new 2020 Honors List.
The announcement was welcomed by Hamilton director and coach Mark Johnston, who recognized Currie’s impact during her nearly 14-year tenure at the track.
Mark Johnston
“It was great that Vivien got the date,” Johnston said. “It is a huge honor and a compliment to Hamilton that her achievements at the track have been viewed so positively. All directors are delighted for her and delighted to be a director. Hamilton’s executive will go to Ascot.”
Sir Ian Good, chairman of Hamilton, added: “Vivien has overseen a hugely successful period in the racecourse’s history and has played a leading role in the growth and expansion of the business across all fronts. battle.
“While we are saddened to see her move on, the opportunity to take over at Ascot in such a prestigious role is one not to be missed, and she extends our sincere thanks. for her great contributions to Hamilton Park.”
Henderson will officially step down on June 30, having been Ascot’s chief executive since 2015.
Sir Francis Brooke, Queen’s representative and chair of the course said: “Vivien will join as Chief Executive in April and work alongside Guy prior to the handover of Royal Ascot in Platinum Year On June 30, she will take over as CEO when Guy retires at the end of what has been a stellar tenure.
“Vivien’s career is a fascinating mix of strategy, commercial and racecourse management experience. This makes her an excellent candidate for the role, in a thorough search. and on a large scale. The entire board is looking forward to welcoming her to Ascot.”
