OVERVIEW

The Retired Racehorse Project, a 501(c)3 charitable organization, seeks an Executive Director with vision and passion to lead the organization into its second decade of service to Thoroughbred ex-racehorses in pursuit of second careers. The organization increases the demand for Thoroughbreds in equestrian sports using a market-based approach that serves the farms, trainers, owners and organizations that transition them.
The cornerstone event in support of this goal is the annual Thoroughbred Makeover, designed to inspire equestrians of all levels, backgrounds and ages, and showcase the trainability and talent of OTTBs. The RRP also hosts regional clinics/demos, educational seminars, and a Marketplace to facilitate the sale of Thoroughbreds to off-track trainers. The RRP additionally hosts a National Symposium to educate people involved in the care, training, and sale of these horses to responsible owners.

JOB DESCRIPTION
The RRP’s Executive Director should have a strong understanding of Thoroughbred racing and breeding industries, the equestrian world, numerous disciplines within the sport horse industry that are highlighted at the Makeover, as well as the supplemental organizations that support them. This highly visible position requires extensive experience in public speaking, fundraising, grant management, strategic planning, and supervisory roles.
Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:
? Develop and maintain relationships with key donors and sponsors
? Develop and maintain relationships and strategic partnerships with individuals, associations, and businesses related to Thoroughbred breeding, sales and racing; equestrian sports; aftercare; state and national equine advocacy and welfare
? Speak at/attend conferences, major events and other gatherings within the Thoroughbred and equine communities
? Helping to oversee RRP’s major events (Thoroughbred Makeover, etc.) and host VIPs
? Serving as the media representative for the organization on key/major issues
? Identify and apply for grants and serve as the point of contact for grant reports, follow-up and relationship maintenance
? Identify and develop new initiatives and partnerships aimed at expanding the RRP’s reach
? Represent the RRP on industry-related boards and committees
? Oversee strategic planning and operations of the organization, its staff, and Board of Directors

This is a full-time position that requires a heavy presence in Kentucky and Maryland, but one that can be managed remotely. The successful candidate will have at least ten years of experience in the designated responsibility areas, and be willing to travel on behalf of the RRP approximately 20 percent of the time. He/She is someone who works well within a team and is adaptable to working as a part of a geographically diverse group of highly motivated and dedicated employees. The salary range for this position is commensurate with experience and includes a benefits package.

Applicants should submit a cover letter expressing interest and qualifications for the position, along with a Resume with at least three reference contacts. Finalists will be asked to present their vision for RRP’s next five – ten years to a virtual meeting of the Search Committee. The deadline for applying for this position is December 20, 2021. Please send materials to RRPapplications@gmail.com.