Position available for a Chief Veterinary Officer at Racing Victoria

Position Available:

Chief Veterinary Officer
Posted: 14/01/2026
Closing Date: 14/02/2026
Salary: $200,000.00 – $250,000.00
Job Type: Permanent – Full Time
Location: Racing Victoria – Head Office
Job Category: Agriculture, Nature & Animal,Other

Job Description

The Chief Veterinary Officer provides strategic and operational leadership of Racing Victoria’s veterinary function, ensuring the highest standards of equine welfare, clinical governance, regulatory compliance and biosecurity across training and racing environments.

Working closely with the stewards, industry participants, senior executives, industry bodies and veterinary professionals, the role plays a critical leadership function in shaping veterinary policy, advising on complex and high-profile matters, and driving continuous improvement across veterinary systems and operating practices.

This role provides expert oversight of raceday veterinary operations, equine anti-doping programs, disease control and international horse movements, and supports the organisation’s commitment to evidence-based welfare outcomes throughout the full lifecycle of the thoroughbred.

About You

You are a respected veterinary leader with deep regulatory experience, sound clinical judgement and the credibility to operate confidently in high-profile, high-accountability environments. You bring strong strategic capability, exceptional stakeholder engagement skills and a genuine commitment to equine welfare and integrity.

Essential Experience, Skills and Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Veterinary Science (registrable in Victoria).
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in equine practice, with substantial regulatory or racing industry exposure.
• Recognised industry expertise in equine veterinary practice.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex portfolios or functions.
• Medical imaging literacy (CT, MRI, PET).
• Strong understanding of medication control, prohibited substances and testing protocols.
• Proven ability to operate effectively under scrutiny and in emergency environments.
• Highly developed written, verbal and stakeholder communication skills.
• Strong organisational capability and adaptability in dynamic environments.
• Victorian Driver’s Licence and ability to meet operational requirements.

Why Join Racing Victoria?

• A rare leadership opportunity influencing the future of equine welfare and integrity.
• Work at the forefront of veterinary governance, science and regulation.
• Collaborate with leading industry experts and international stakeholders.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the sustainability of the racing industry.

How to apply

If you have the skills, experience and leadership capability to excel in this role, we encourage you to submit your application via our online careers portal.

Your application should include a current CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.

Apply here: