SATURDAY 24 APRIL 2010

Darren Pearce has been appointed Chief Executive of the Australian Jockey Club at a board meeting today.

Pearce, 37, who has been acting in the role since May 1, 2009, will take up the new post immediately.

AJC chairman Ron Finemore, AO, said Pearce had impressed the board with his leadership and determination.

"Darren has been an integral part of delivering the progress made over the last 12 months,” Finemore said.

"We are in a strong position to move forward as a business and I am excited to welcome Darren to the permanent role of Chief Executive.

"He and his team are empowered to deliver the best outcome for the club."

Pearce spent 15 years as a chartered accountant working in finance and banking circles before joining the AJC on October 25, 2005.

He left the lucrative finance industry to follow his passion of racing, love of the glorious thoroughbred and because he felt he could make a difference.

Pearce has held several jobs at the AJC in the finance, commercial and racing operations and is known as a team player that takes an active interest in all aspects of the AJC business.

"I am honoured to receive this recognition and to lead the oldest and proudest racing club in the country into what I believe is a stronger future. I am grateful for the faith the Board has shown in me and for the support of my team, without whom this appointment would not have been possible” Pearce said.