British Dressage Chief Executive Amanda Bond has announced that she will be leaving the organisation to take up an exciting opportunity overseas in June.
Amanda joined British Dressage in October 2008 after completing her role with the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics in Hong Kong and in her five and a half years with the organisation has made a significant impact. Under her guidance and leadership, BD has developed and grown into one of the world’s most respected equestrian organisations.
British Dressage Chairman Penny Pollard commented; “Amanda’s departure will be a huge loss to both the company and the sport of dressage and para dressage in Great Britain. In her time as Chief Executive, she has shaped and moulded us into a more professional company and has never been daunted by the task. Professionally, I will miss working with her as the enthusiasm and passion she brings to the job is outstanding. I’m certain the rest of the Board, staff, members and supporters of British Dressage will join me in wishing her well in her new adventure.”
Amanda will be joining the Hong Kong Jockey Club in the role of Executive Manager – Equestrian Affairs. She will oversee all matters equestrian outside of racing with the aim of developing equestrian sport in the region. With over 25,000 employees, the Jockey Club is the largest employer in Hong Kong and it is also one of the largest charitable donors in the world. As a not-for-profit organisation, they invest around HK$1billion annually in charitable causes.
Amanda said; “My departure is tinged with sadness as I have enjoyed every second of my time with BD. We have an excellent team and it has been a joy to work with everyone. It really does feel that it has been an honour to serve the members and the sport. It has been quite a five years…a period of my life I will always cherish. Moving on was never going to be an easy decision, but the opportunity at such a prestigious organisation as the Hong Kong Jockey Club was not one I could ignore. They have ambitious plans and I look forward to helping shape the future.”
Recruitment for a replacement is already underway. Penny added; “Amanda will be difficult to replace. However, we’re looking for someone to continue to deliver on our ambitious strategic plan. There’s a great team in place at Meriden who really understand the running of our sport. What we need now is an inspiring leader with proven managerial experience and ideally someone with a strong commercial background.”
Photo © Astrid Appels
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