Nick Mills Steps Up as Chief Executive of Racecourse Media Group
In a significant transition for the horseracing industry, Nick Mills has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Racecourse Media Group (RMG), effective November 4, 2023. Mills, who previously held the position of Chief Commercial Officer, succeeds Martin Stevenson, who has led RMG since 2020 and played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization’s direction and performance.
A Well-Prepared Leader
Nick Mills’s journey in the horseracing sector began in 1998 when he joined the prestigious bookmaker Coral as Marketing Director. His experience spans over two decades, during which he has developed a profound understanding of the intricacies of the racing world. In 2005, Mills took a significant step in his career by joining Racing UK, which eventually became known as Racecourse Media Group. As Sales and Marketing Director, he was instrumental in fostering strong relationships and driving strategic initiatives that contributed to RMG’s growth.
Mills’s extensive background in sales and marketing makes him a strong choice for the chief executive role. His comprehensive knowledge of media rights, streaming, and commercial strategies positions him to navigate the complexities of both the traditional horseracing landscape and the increasingly digital future ahead.
Transitioning Leadership
The decision for a leadership change came after Martin Stevenson entrusted the RMG board to find his successor. Stevenson has been an influential figure in RMG since 2007, successfully guiding the organization through various challenges and achieving record results for its member racecourses. Under his stewardship, RMG has not only excelled in profitability but also embraced innovation to ensure sustainable growth.
Mills expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to take the helm, stating, "I am honoured to be given the opportunity to succeed Martin as chief executive and to lead the brilliant team at Racecourse Media Group." His enthusiasm for the role underscores his commitment to RMG’s mission and the racing community.
Addressing Current Challenges
While Mills acknowledges the challenges faced by the horseracing industry, he views this period as an exciting time for RMG. He believes that the current landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation and expansion across various platforms. His vision for the future focuses on maximizing RMG’s potential by harnessing the collective energy and dedication of his team and the member racecourses.
“To ensure that our full potential is realised, it is important that we continue to harness the passion and commitment not only within RMG but also of the dedicated teams across all of our member racecourses who directly contribute to and benefit from our success,” Mills elaborated. This collaborative approach can potentially lead to new heights in performance and development in the racing sector.
The Vision Moving Forward
Conor Grant, Chair of RMG, expressed confidence in Mills’s ability to drive growth and innovation. He noted, “Nick has been a highly regarded member of the team for nearly 20 years, and we are delighted to appoint him as chief executive.” Grant’s endorsement highlights Mills’s competence in optimizing the value of member racecourses’ media rights while responding to the evolving needs of the industry.
As Mills assumes his new role, the industry looks expectantly at how RMG will navigate the future. He is determined not only to maintain the successes of his predecessor but also to innovate and lead the organization into new territories.
Conclusion
Nick Mills’s appointment as the Chief Executive of Racecourse Media Group marks a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey. With a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for horseracing, Mills stands ready to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing landscape. His vision for the future, rooted in collaboration and innovation, hints at exciting times ahead for RMG and its community of racecourses. The industry is poised to watch how his leadership unfolds, as Mills champions both tradition and modernity in one of the world’s oldest sports.
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