Jimmy George to leave Tattersalls for managing director role at the International Racing Bureau

Jimmy George is to leave Tattersalls at the end of 2024 to take on the role of managing director of the Newmarket-based International Racing Bureau (IRB).

George’s move comes after 23 years as Tattersalls marketing director, and he will step into the position in the new year, taking over from Alastair Donald, who is retiring having served as IRB managing director since 2001.

George said: "I joined Tattersalls in 1986 and have served on the board since 2001, so this has not been a decision taken lightly, but I have a long association with the International Racing Bureau which, like Tattersalls, is a great company with a global reputation for excellence and the time is right to take on a new challenge. 

"I have enjoyed every moment of my time at Tattersalls and will leave with fond memories and in the knowledge that I will continue to have an association with a firm which has always adhered to the very highest standards and commands respect throughout the world.”

Tattersalls chairman Edmond Mahony said: "Jimmy has served on the Tattersalls board with enormous distinction for more than 20 years and I would not only like to thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to Tattersalls over many years, but also to wish him every success in his new role as managing director of the International Racing Bureau. 

"Jimmy has a working lifetime of experience, particularly in a multitude of overseas markets, which we will continue to harness and we are delighted that he will be maintaining an association with Tattersalls.”

Ross Jones, non-executive chairman of the IRB, said: “To have someone of Jimmy’s calibre step into the role of managing director at the International Racing Bureau will ensure a seamless transition as Alastair Donald steps down after 23 years. 

"Alastair is hugely respected by all of our clients, both domestic and international, and has done so much as managing director to shape the International Racing Bureau in its 47-year history. His wise counsel will be missed by all of us at the IRB, but we wish him the happiest of retirements and look forward to working with Jimmy starting in the new year.”

Donald said: “After more than 40 years and 23 of them as managing director, it is time to move on from the International Racing Bureau and I'm delighted that Jimmy will be taking on the role. 

"He has a detailed knowledge of the company and is joining a dedicated and talented group of individuals, all of whom I have thoroughly enjoyed working with and all of whom have played a major part in the lasting success of the International Racing Bureau."

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