Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) today announced Craig Armstead as its new General Manager – Clubs and Membership Development who will commence his role Monday 16 June 2014.

The position was created as a result of a restructure identified in GRV’s five-year Strategic Plan On Track for a Great Future with its core focus being to attract and retain members as well as support and grow the business operations of GRV’s 13 Clubs.

Armstead comes to GRV with extensive experience across a range of fields, delivering excellent results in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Product and Sports markets.

Craig notably worked as the Business Manager – Consumer at the Geelong Football Club and at Tabcorp as Marketing Manager – Wagering and has been delivering expert advice on marketing strategy, portfolio planning, proposition development and commercialisation as a consultant in the recent past.

Talking of the appointment, Chief Executive of GRV Adam Wallish said the position was vital in growing the sport’s membership base and adding an increased level of professionalism at Clubs leading to a more profitable and sustainable business model.

“Growing and retaining our membership base and assisting our Clubs in their business development were identified as major areas of importance throughout our strategic planning process,” Mr. Wallish said.

“We are very excited to welcome Craig to the team at GRV and will be calling on his expertise in a number of areas to help to grow our sport and benefit our members.”

Armstead said he is looking forward to beginning in the role, commenting that he has long had an admiration for greyhound racing and believes there is plenty of upside to the sport.

“Growing businesses and implementing effective strategies is something I get immense enjoyment from and it’s something that has guided my professional career so far,” Mr. Armstead said.

“I have a real passion for regional businesses and regional areas having worked regionally for a number of years and working with GRV’s race clubs to help them grow and prosper was one of the reasons I was so attracted to the role.

“I have a genuine passion for greyhound racing and attend a number of race meetings a year which has led me to understand the potential the sport has for growth.”

One of Craig’s first projects will be to assist GRV’s Clubs with the development of their individual strategic plans that will consider the Club’s role in the sport, opportunities to increase local engagement and identify additional revenue sources.