UNA Tormey is the new chief executive of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association.

Tormey joined the ITBA two years ago as membership coordinator and was soon promoted to operations manager. During that time she gained a wealth of experience representing Irish breeders while working closely with Shane O’Dwyer, who stepped down as CEO in October.

Prior to joining the ITBA, Tormey worked in office management roles in customer focused businesses outside of racing. She has been described by the ITBA as “a dynamic team player” who has “a proven track record of building and maintaining successful business relationships in both domestic and international markets which will enable her to successfully promote and support Irish breeders.”

Tormey will be supported in her role by the office team of membership coordinator Danielle Deveney and education coordinator Hannah Marks.

“I am really looking forward to working with Irish breeders and with the members of the ITBA council,” Tormey said. “The Association has many exciting plans for 2023 and beyond, and I will endeavour to deliver these successfully to the benefit of Irish breeders.”

ITBA chairman Cathy Grassick said: “On behalf of the ITBA council, I am delighted that Una has accepted the position of chief executive. With the hard work and support of Una, the ITBA team and its council members, I am looking forward to developing the Association and delivering a quality service to the breeders of Ireland.”