The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has today announced that Rose Grissell has been appointed to the new role of Head of Diversity and Inclusion for British racing.
The senior role was created as a result of the Diversity and Inclusion in British Racing Action Plan, published in July 2018, and is another important step to fulfil British racing’s ambitions to become more diverse and inclusive and a sport where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their potential and fans of all communities feel welcome.
The primary function of the role will be to work with the Diversity in Racing Steering Group to co-ordinate and implement the recommendations of the Action Plan and to work with the Racing industry more widely to better understand and improve diversity and inclusiveness.
Rose was Senior Project Manager for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal and has delivered a number of initiatives including the mental health campaign ‘This Is Me’ and ‘She Can Be’ a programme to encourage young women into City careers.
She was appointed following a competitive recruitment process with over 30 applications from a variety of different sectors. A shortlist of candidates were then interviewed by a panel from the Diversity in Racing Steering Group.
She will report to the BHA Chief Executive and Diversity in Racing Steering Group Chair, Nick Rust who said:
“We are delighted to have made an appointment to this new and important role for British racing. The calibre of applicants was very high but we decided that Rose was an exceptional candidate who not only understands the racing industry but also has considerable experience driving change in this area in the corporate world. I look forward to working with Rose and the Diversity in Racing Steering Group as we take forward our diversity and inclusion agenda.”
Rose Grissell said:
“I am very excited to take up the role of Head of Diversity and Inclusion. In just a short period of time, British racing has already made significant progress in addressing the issues of inequality and lack of diversity within horseracing by conducting valuable research and creating an action plan to tackle these issues. I am very much looking forward to working with the Diversity in Racing Steering Group, as well as the wider racing community, to implement these plans and to make racing more inclusive for all.”
Rishi Persad, Diversity in Racing Steering Group member said:
“The Diversity and Inclusion agenda has gathered significant momentum in the last 18 months. However, we are all acutely aware real progress requires input from everyone across the sport combined with a dedicated executive resource. We were impressed by Rose’s professional record and expertise in the field of diversity and inclusion, which along with her knowledge and experience of racing ensures she is well placed to lead change in this important area. Everyone in the Diversity in Racing Steering Group looks forward to working with her.”
Notes to editors:
1. The Diversity and Inclusion in British Racing Action Plan can be read here.
2. Photo of Rose Grissell, who begins her role on 31 October:
3. Rose Grissell is the daughter of independent Judicial Panel member Gardie Grissell, who has stepped down from his role on the Panel.
