Jason Scott has been appointed as the new CEO of Racing Queensland (RQ). Scott, an ex-Ladbrokes Australia Chief Executive who has been based in the US in recent years as Vice President of Trading, VIP and Retail Operations for BetMGM, replaces Brendan Parnell. ”I decided to take this position because I think I can make a difference,” he proclaimed as he formally succeeded Parnell in late April.
In a new interview following his appointment, Scott said he feels upbeat when considering the situation of the racing business today. As a fervent sports fan, Scott says he has always had a good sense of statistics, a skill that he developed while working at the racetrack, and that has since come to define him.
“We are still a fair way behind Victoria and NSW, but we are a lot closer than what we were six years ago and my goal and my job is to get us even closer in the next six years,” he declared.
Scott, who was raised in Sydney, moved to Brisbane in 2004, where he started his professional career with Humbleton, a pioneer in wagering analysis. His subsequent endeavors took him to jobs at Queensland’s Tatts and Australia’s Bookmaker.com.au, which culminated in a CEO post at horse racing betting website Ladbrokes Australia. Prior to his position at Racing Queensland, he most recently worked with BetMGM in the United States.
As reported by local media, the CEO says that during the time he spent working in the gambling sector, the industry underwent tremendous growth and development as companies like Sportingbet and Ladbrokes started to identify and make use of the possibilities of digital marketing. He believes this change allowed wagering to leave the realm of racing and sports and enter the general public’s attention.
The newly appointed CEO said in interviews he is aware of the dangers this developing sector might pose. In order to safeguard young viewers from unwarranted exposure to the hazards of gambling, Scott noted favors the limitations on the advertising of wagering providers on television during specific times.
He envisions his role as a leader not merely as a decision-maker but as “a builder of teams,” drawing on the expertise of individuals within the industry who are better versed in all three codes than him. Scott said that his focus lies in creating a reliable and competent team that can collectively steer Racing Queensland on the path to success.
Ignazia Graziella, Racing Minister
At the time of his appointment, Ignazia Graziella, Racing Minister, said: “With more prize money available, major infrastructure being delivered, and greater support for country racing, I look forward to working with Jason Scott to ensure the best is yet to come for racing in the Sunshine State.”