Manager of Investigations and Animal Welfare – Can be based in Hobart or Launceston
The Opportunity
On 1 February 2025, a new era for racing in Tasmania began when the newly established Tasracing Integrity Unit (TIU), assumed responsibility for Racing Integrity across the State. An exciting opportunity is now available for a highly experienced Manager of Investigations and Animal Welfare to lead and oversee all investigative operations within the Tasracing Integrity Unit (TIU). This role reports directly into the Chief Racing Integrity Officer, Ms Heidi Lester. This role ensures compliance with the Rules of Racing and relevant legislation while upholding the highest standards of animal welfare and integrity. The Manager of Investigations and Animal Welfare provides leadership to the investigative team, coordinates complex investigations, and drives continuous improvement in regulatory compliance across the industry.
About Us
At Tasracing, racing is our passion. Tasracing is Tasmania's Principal Racing Authority, entrusted with the comprehensive development and promotion of the state's racing industry. As the governing body, we oversee the ongoing growth of racing and breeding, market Tasmanian racing to local, national, and international audiences, fund race clubs, provide stakes and prize money, manage racing venues, and ensure the smooth operation of race day activities. Our commitment to animal welfare, industry integrity, and growth is at the heart of everything we do.
With over 150 years of history and a team of over 250 employees, we're committed to building a united and vibrant industry Tasmania can be proud of.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory Compliance & Investigations
* Lead, coordinate, and oversee risk‐based, intelligence‐driven investigations into potential breaches of racing and animal welfare regulations, along with investigations directed by the Commissioner's office.
* Direct and manage inspections of training and racing facilities in collaboration with the Animal Welfare team and the Stewards Panel.
* Respond to and assess reports of potential animal welfare concerns, ensuring timely and appropriate enforcement action.
* Conduct complex investigations, including interviewing participants, evidence gathering, and preparing comprehensive reports.
* Manage out‐of‐competition testing and ensure strict adherence to sample security protocols.
* Responsible for the development of internal policies and procedures.
Inquiry & Hearing Preparation
* Oversee the preparation of professional, legally sound briefs of evidence for formal inquiries, tribunals, and court proceedings.
* Represent the Tasracing Integrity Unit in inquiries and hearings, ensuring investigations are presented clearly and with procedural accuracy.
* Advise stakeholders on regulatory requirements and assist in the development of policies to strengthen compliance frameworks.
Stakeholder Engagement & Industry Leadership
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with industry participants, club managers, and racing stakeholders.
* Act as a key liaison with external regulatory bodies such as RSPCA, Tasmanian Police, local councils, and racing integrity officials.
* Drive collaboration with external agencies on joint investigations and intelligence‐sharing initiatives.
* Advocate for continuous improvement in welfare and integrity practices across the industry.
Team Leadership & Development
* Lead, mentor, and develop the investigations team to ensure a high‐performing and professional unit.
* Provide coaching, training, and ongoing professional development opportunities for investigators.
* Ensure all investigative operations align with best practices, ethical standards, and legal frameworks.
* Contribute to strategic decision‐making within the Tasracing Integrity Unit and broader regulatory landscape.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
* Extensive experience leading and conducting complex investigations, preferably in a regulatory, law enforcement, or racing industry context.
* Experience in presenting cases in tribunals or court proceedings.
* Certificate IV in Government (Investigations) or equivalent qualification.
* Strong leadership and team management skills.
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
* Proven ability to manage sensitive and high‐profile investigations with discretion and integrity.
* High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
* Ability to work outside business hours from time to time.
Highly Desirable:
* Strong understanding of the Rules of Racing and relevant regulatory frameworks.
Why Join Tasracing?
At Tasracing, you're not just starting a job – you're joining a vibrant, people focused workplace that celebrates growth, wellbeing, and community.
What We Offer
* Competitive Salary: Base salary of 140K to 150K, plus superannuation and vehicle.
* Parental Leave: 12 weeks of fully paid, gender‐neutral parental leave.
* Career Development: Access to ourRACEprofessional development program.
* Wellbeing Support: Annual wellness rebate, discounted private health insurance, gym memberships, and free fruit at all sites.
* Team Culture: High engagement scores (77% in our latest survey) and regular team‐building events like morning teas and BBQs.
If you're ready to embrace a role where your skills and passion merge seamlessly, apply now to be a part of our winning team!
At Tasracing, we promote and respect the unique contribution of all people, and strongly encourage people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, people from diverse backgrounds, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans, parents, and individuals differently abled to apply.
Closing date Thursday 14 May 2026. Employment subject to a police check.
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