Leo Powell has been appointed the new independent chairman of the Bloodstock Industry Forum (BIF), the organisation announced on Friday. He will replace current chairman Henry Beeby, the Goffs Group chief executive, with immediate effect. Beeby, himself, replaced Jimmy George of Tattersalls, who held the chairmanship when BIF was formed.
Powell was honoured this year the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ITBA)'s annual awards for his lifetime contribution to the industry. BIF was formed in 2019 in response to the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Review of the Buying and Selling of Bloodstock and Racehorses, and subsequently published the Bloodstock Industry Code of Practice. Powell was previously associated with Ballsbridge Sales, now known as Tattersalls Ireland, Goffs, and, for the past 20 years, editor of The Irish Field.
Powell said, “I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as the Independent Chair of BIF. This is an area in which I have always taken a keen interest, and recognise its importance in giving confidence to all participants in the industry.”
Added Beeby, “An independent chair was one of a number of key aspirations for BIF once we had published the Code of Practice in August 2021, and Leo is ideally qualified for this position as he is truly independent of all other BIF members. He has an undeniably thorough knowledge and understanding of the bloodstock industry, having worked for both major auction houses and then commented upon and analysed the selling of horses as well as a wide range of bloodstock and racing issues in his role at The Irish Field.
“BIF is lucky to have secured his services, whilst the Committee would like to acknowledge the work of Jimmy who coordinated the introduction of the Code.”
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