BHA names former Deloitte director as new chief financial officer 

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has appointed former Deloitte head Alan Switzer as its CFO as the horseracing body remains on the hunt for a new CEO.  

Switzer takes the role on a permanent basis having served as the BHA’s interim CFO since August 2024.  

The appointment builds on Switzer’s previous work with the BHA, which included him overseeing an extensive review of the organisation’s structure and operational functions, in addition to supporting the delivery of British racing’s industry strategy. 

As CFO, Switzer will be tasked with managing the BHA’s financial operations as well as advising its board, executive team and audit committee. 

He will also have a key role in liaising with horseracing stakeholders on an industry-wide approach to the sport’s long-term financial sustainability. 

Prior to joining the BHA, Switzer worked for more than two decades as a director at professional services firm Deloitte from June 2001 to December 2022.  

During his time with Deloitte, he headed up the group’ sports business group and worked closely with the British horseracing sector, leading on multiple projects.

Speaking about 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’s appointment follows the BHA naming Lord Allen of Kensington as its new chair earlier this month, effective from 1 June 2025.  

The horseracing body is also still on the lookout for a new CEO, with current chief Julie Harrington set to step down at the end of the year.  

Harrington had been in the position since January 2021 after succeeding Nick Rust in the role.  

Commenting on Switzer’s appointment, Harrington added: “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.” 

Arnold Ash is EGR’s Executive Recruitment Partner. They support ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.