MARK BIRD

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain are pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Bird into the new position of Managing Director for the GBGB, replacing the outgoing CEO Barry Faulkner.

For the past two years Mark has been the Director of Regulation for GBGB and will now combine this role with that of being the new Managing Director.

In appointing Mark, the Board intends to enter a new era of progression, openness, transparency and accountability.

In accepting the role, Mark said, “This is a hugely challenging time for licensed greyhound racing in the UK but notwithstanding this, I am delighted to be given the chance to lead the GBGB team with the full support of the Board. Whilst I am in no doubt as to some of the hurdles ahead, such as the long-term funding from the bookmakers and the potential change in political landscape where greyhound racing is concerned, there are also obvious opportunities, which will include reviewing the ambition and direction of GBGB in collaboration with both the Board and other stakeholders. I am grateful to inherit a strong team as part of Barry’s legacy of leadership and I am confident that moving forward we can make a really positive impact on licensed greyhound racing in the UK.”

Barry Faulkner said, “Mark proved an excellent appointment as Director of Regulation and I have enjoyed working with him for the last two years. He has developed a thorough understanding of all the issues facing greyhound racing and the board has made the right decision to promote him to his new role to address the challenges facing the sport.”

Interim Board Chairman, Robert Griffiths QC said of the appointment, “Mark’s appointment reflects the Board’s determination and commitment to preserve and enhance the status and commercial viability of greyhound racing in the UK. He is a man of vision, ability, and integrity, who is ideally qualified to deliver these objectives. He will progressively build on the solid foundations already laid by Barry Faulkner, the outgoing Chief Executive, for whose highly valued services the Board is greatly indebted.”

 

The effective date of appointment will be 18th September.