Thoroughbred Talents Graduate Programme - Racecourse Operations

Programme Overview

Horse Racing Ireland is launching its Thoroughbred Talents Graduate Programme in the Racecourse Operations stream in October 2026. This is a two-year development programme created to give graduates practical exposure to the fast-moving world of racecourse operations within Irish horse racing.

Through a mix of placements, you will build real operational knowledge across racecourse delivery, commercial activity, and racing functions, while learning how major race days and broader industry activity are planned and executed.

Programme Rotations

The programme includes experience across several areas:

• Racecourses: Take part in the planning and delivery of racing and non-racing events, with involvement in logistics, scheduling, customer experience, and live event coordination.
• HRI Racecourses Commercial Department: Support work connected to sponsorships, partnerships, marketing activity, and income generation, while learning how commercial planning supports racecourse growth.
• Racing Department: Work alongside industry specialists on the day-to-day running of racing, including race planning, governance, regulatory matters, and the coordination needed for smooth race meetings.
• Leopardstown Racecourse Masterplan Project: Gain insight into strategic development work, long-term planning, capital projects, and how facilities are evolved to improve the experience for customers and stakeholders.

Programme Experience

Alongside the formal rotations, you will also have the opportunity to:

• Attend horse sales and gain exposure to the commercial and bloodstock side of the sector.
• Take part in Racehorse Ownership open days and engage with owners and syndicates.
• Work across HRI bases and racecourse locations, including Newbridge in County Kildare, Fairyhouse, Navan, Leopardstown, and Tipperary.
• Develop a broad understanding of both the operational and strategic sides of the racing industry.

What the Employer Is Looking For

• You should have completed a Level 8 honours degree within the past two years.
• A genuine enthusiasm for horse racing and a wish to build a career in the industry is important.
• The role suits someone ambitious, creative, and eager to contribute fresh ideas in a changing environment.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal ability are essential.
• Any prior work experience, internships, or extracurricular involvement that shows transferable skills will be relevant.
• You need to be comfortable in a busy, fast-paced setting and flexible enough to work evenings and weekends when necessary.
• Good organisational and communication skills are required, especially in event-led settings.
• A full driving licence and access to transport are required.

Why This Programme Stands Out

This is an opportunity to build a career at the centre of Ireland’s horse racing industry. The programme offers practical experience across operations, commercial activity, and racing governance, while giving you the chance to work with experienced professionals and contribute to major racing events.

Selection Process

• Application submission: Candidates complete the application questions and share information about academic history, relevant experience, and their reasons for applying.
• Application review: The recruitment team assesses academic credentials, skills, extracurricular activity, and any supporting information provided.
• Selection assessments: Shortlisted applicants complete assessments to evaluate aptitude, analytical ability, and suitability for the programme.
• First-round interviews: Candidates who progress are interviewed by HR and hiring managers to discuss motivation, experience, and fit.
• Second-round interviews with senior management: Successful candidates from the first interview stage meet senior leaders to explore their potential contribution and alignment with business goals.
• Final selection: Candidates who are chosen will be offered a place on the programme and begin their career journey with the organisation.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodation

Horse Racing Ireland is an equal opportunities employer and values inclusivity and accessibility. Reasonable accommodation will be provided where needed during the interview process.

Additional Information

The programme is full-time and based onsite. It involves working across multiple locations and may require flexibility for evening and weekend commitments depending on operational needs.