Jockey Club Racecourses today announced the appointment of Jack Parkinson as General Manager of Exeter Racecourse, with effect from September 2017.
Since joining the UK’s leading racecourse group as a Sales Executive at Kempton Park in August 2011, Jack, has worked his way up to become Regional Hospitality Sales Manager for its London region, responsible for Epsom Downs, Sandown Park and Kempton Park racecourses.
Jack, 33, will succeed Daniel Thompson as General Manager at Exeter, who is moving on to another role in racing after two years in this position.
Set in the stunning Devon countryside, Exeter Racecourse is scheduled to stage 17 race meetings in 2018. The racecourse is also a popular venue for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, dinners, weddings and other private events.
Exeter Racecourse is one of 15 racecourses run by The Jockey Club, which stages events including The Cheltenham Festival, the Randox Health Grand National and The Investec Derby.
Jack said: “The General Manager role at Exeter Racecourse is a brilliant opportunity to be part of a fantastic team that provides top-class racing and events facilities.
“I enjoy my Jumps racing and Exeter has a superb reputation, including for Novice races with previous winners including greats like Kauto Star and Cue Card.
“It’s important to me that we ensure Exeter Racecourse is an integral part of the community which offers the best experience for anyone attending our racedays or other events.”
In his new role Jack will report to Ian Renton, who as South West Regional Director of Jockey Club Racecourses is responsible for Cheltenham, Exeter, Warwick and Wincanton.
Ian said: “Jack has demonstrated a huge enthusiasm for his work and the sport during his first six years at The Jockey Club and his commercial skills will be a great asset to Exeter Racecourse.
“I’m excited to be welcoming Jack into the South West team where he will be able to ensure that Exeter Racecourse builds on the successes of the last few years under Dan Thompson, who we all wish well for the future.”
Duncan Sykes, Chairman of Exeter Racecourse, added: “I’m delighted to be welcoming Jack not only as General Manager of our racecourse but also to the area.
“While I’m sure his colleagues in the London region will be sorry to see Jack go we are very lucky to have him here and, personally, I look forward to working with him to ensure Exeter Racecourse continues to go from strength to strength.”
Exeter Racecourse welcomes racing back for its season opener on October 12th and also hosts the Grade 2 Haldon Gold Cup in November, which has been contested by the likes of Best Mate, Kauto Star and Desert Orchid.
About The Jockey Club
The Jockey Club stages thrilling sporting occasions including the Randox Health Grand National, The Cheltenham Festival and The Investec Derby. Millions of people every year enjoy the special experiences we offer through racing, music, food and entertainment. Governed by Royal Charter, every penny we make goes back into British Racing to help the sport thrive. We were founded in 1750 and today we are the largest commercial group in Britain’s second-biggest spectator sport, operating 15 racecourses nationwide, The National Stud, Jockey Club Estates, Jockey Club Catering, Jockey Club Live and our charity, Racing Welfare. For more information visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk.
