Russell Ferris leaves Weatherbys for new role at Racecourse Media Group, with Sharon O'Regan to replace him

Russell Ferris is leaving his position as chief executive of Weatherbys to take up the new role of managing director at Racecourse Media Group (RMG). He will be succeeded at Weatherbys by Sharon O'Regan.

Ferris has more than 20 years of experience in senior positions in the racing industry, having previously been managing director of Limerick racecourse and Ireland director for At The Races. He joined Weatherbys Ireland in 2016 and was promoted to group chief executive of Weatherbys three years later.

RMG chief executive Nick Mills said Ferris would bring a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the operation when he joins in August.

Mills added: "Russell will oversee and further align the commercial and broadcast departments and help take the business to new levels in terms of innovation, engagement and revenues."

Ferris said he was looking forward to the new challenge.

He said: "RMG play a pivotal role within the industry both domestically and internationally, and I am excited by the company’s vision to further enhance the sport’s appeal, reach and engagement to ensure a bright future for all."

Ferris said he was leaving his former employer in great hands in the shape of O'Regan, who is currently deputy chief executive of Weatherbys as well as general manager of Weatherbys Ireland.

Sharon O'Regan is to take over as Weatherbys chief executive in July

O'Regan, who takes over as chief executive in July, has been at Weatherbys for more than 20 years, most recently leading the team which the company said had been "so successful in securing significant business from overseas racing jurisdictions".

She said: "I am proud to have had a career in Weatherbys moving within various roles of the business and am truly honoured to step into the CE role at a very exciting time for our company.

"Weatherbys has an incredible legacy, a passionate team and limitless potential."

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