Brad Steele to Step Down as HRNZ CEO After Transformative Tenure

Harness Racing New Zealand (HRNZ) Chief Executive Brad Steele will step down later this month, bringing to a close a two-year tenure widely credited with driving reform, innovation, and a clear focus on sustainability and growth. His leadership has modernised the sport, strengthened commercial alignment, and helped restore confidence across participants, stakeholders, and government.

HRNZ Chair Grant Jarrold confirmed Steele’s resignation in a statement to stakeholders, advising that his final day in office will be April 24, with the role formally concluding on May 8 before he returns to Australia.

“Brad has led HRNZ for nearly two years and has made a significant contribution during that time to both the organisation and New Zealand harness racing,” Jarrold said.

Strategic Leadership & Industry Structure

One of Steele’s earliest structural initiatives was the creation of a dedicated Racing & Wagering leadership function, culminating in the appointment of Matt Peden. This move was widely viewed as a progressive step toward aligning racing operations with wagering performance, ensuring sharper commercial focus and better integration with betting partners. It reflects global best practice in racing jurisdictions where wagering and product delivery are closely linked.

Operational Excellence & Transparency

The introduction of metro race fields being released every Monday, followed by wagering markets opening on Tuesday, has set a new benchmark across Australasia. Industry observers have noted this as a significant improvement in professionalism, providing punters with greater certainty and enabling more informed wagering decisions which are key drivers of engagement and turnover growth.

Integrity & Governance

The closure of Operation Inca marked an important turning point for the industry. Under Steele’s leadership, the conclusion of this long-running integrity matter has allowed the sport to move forward with renewed focus and confidence. Complementing this, enhancements to the Code of Conduct have strengthened protections for participants and reinforced expectations around professionalism and behaviour.

Innovation in Racing Experience

The introduction of the “driver no talking” policy has been widely recognised as a simple but effective innovation, enhancing broadcast clarity and improving the viewing experience for audiences. Alongside this, the Harness 5000 initiative has demonstrated Steele’s willingness to trial new formats and inject fresh energy into the racing product.

Global Recognition & Event Delivery

New Zealand’s hosting of the World Drivers Championship, the first time entirely on its own, was a landmark achievement. Feedback from international participants described the event as one of the best delivered, highlighting HRNZ’s capability on the global stage and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leader in harness racing.

Financial & Participant Support

The shift to weekly stakes payments has been warmly received by participants, improving cash flow and financial stability across the industry. This practical reform reflects Steele’s understanding of the operational realities faced by trainers, drivers, and owners.

Communication & Engagement

Steele has prioritised transparency through regular industry bulletins and improved communication channels. This consistent engagement has helped rebuild trust and ensure stakeholders remain informed and aligned during a period of significant change.

Jarrold noted this visibility and connection as a key part of Steele’s contribution.

“The Board is grateful for Brad’s contribution, and particularly the extensive work he has done to increase and enhance HRNZ’s visibility and relationships with key stakeholders,” he said.

Breeding & Industry Growth

The launch of the “Paddock to Podium” breeding rewards scheme has provided meaningful incentives to breeders and owners, contributing to renewed confidence in the breeding sector. This is evidenced by the largest increase in mares bred in 16 years, a critical leading indicator of long-term industry health.

Next Generation & Audience Development

The introduction of the “Next Gen” concept, alongside initiatives like “Firsties” aimed at attracting new audiences to the track, reflects a forward-thinking approach to fan engagement. These programs are designed to broaden the sport’s appeal and ensure its relevance to future generations.

Stakeholder Relationships & Partnerships

A key achievement of Steele’s tenure has been the rebuilding of critical relationships with government, TAB NZ, Entain, and Harness Racing Australia. These strengthened partnerships have underpinned greater alignment, improved funding outcomes, and enhanced strategic direction for the industry.

In addition, the strategic partnership with the NZ Breeders Association has fostered greater collaboration across the breeding sector, ensuring a more unified approach to growth and development.

Institutional Strengthening

The formation of the National Bureau represents a significant step toward centralised coordination and operational efficiency within the sport. This initiative supports better data, planning, and execution across racing activities nationwide.

Commercial Performance & Investment

Under Steele’s leadership, wagering performance has achieved sustained “growth on growth,” reflecting both improved product delivery and stronger alignment with wagering partners. At the same time, the industry has seen increased Australian investment and participation, signalling renewed confidence in New Zealand harness racing as a competitive and attractive marketplace.

Visibility & Industry Presence

Greater HRNZ visibility at race meetings has reinforced leadership presence and strengthened connections with grassroots participants. This hands-on approach has been noted positively across the industry, contributing to a stronger sense of unity and direction.

As HRNZ moves into a transition phase, Jarrold emphasised the Board’s commitment to continuity.

“The Board remains fully committed to the delivery of HRNZ’s strategy and will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure continuity and stability for the organisation and the wider industry while a replacement CEO is appointed,” he said.

 

From Harnesslink Media