GBGB announces chief executive Bird will step down in April

THE GBGB has announced that Mark Bird will step down as CEO and retire in April 2025, after seven years in post. 

The Board will now begin the recruitment process for a successor with GBGB chairman Jeremy Cooper saying: “It is no exaggeration to say that Mark has transformed the reputation and governance of the sport over the past nine years, including his time as the Director of Regulation.

"He has been an exemplary Chief Executive under whose leadership the sport has successfully managed the challenges of Covid and the cost-of-living crisis, the sustained and unsuccessful attacks from the animal rights movement and the continued pivotal focus of the sport on canine welfare.

"He has championed welfare whilst also strengthening the structures, political relationships, and strategic partnerships that the sport depends upon. 

“His capabilities, dedication and friendship will be sorely missed.” 

Bird himself said: “It has been my immense pleasure to have worked in this sport. There are so many passionate people who adore their dogs and the racing experience, and so many larger-than-life characters who are dedicated to the sport, whom I have been very proud to work alongside.

"I have also been delighted to have developed a small but dedicated team at GBGB, all of whom are committed to making a positive difference in the sport.

"My sincere thanks likewise go to the GBGB Board for their continued vision and enthusiasm in often uncertain times. 

“UK greyhound racing is certainly better placed to enter a second centenary of sporting endeavours in the next couple of years, but we can never be complacent in terms of maintaining our sport’s social licence within society.

"There will need to be a balance struck within the sport as to the overall level of racing versus the availability of racing greyhounds and our ability in the sport, and in partnership with homing stakeholders, to home our retired athletes.

"I would urge all stakeholders in greyhound racing to look at what connects us all and how this can be strengthened as we all move forward to further future-proof the sport.”