Former Molson Coors Executive Brings Extensive Commercial Expertise and Industry Background to the BHA
Simon Cox has been appointed as the new independent non-executive Chair of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA). He will officially assume his position on October 1, 2026, taking over on an initial three-year term following an open recruitment process overseen by an interim Nominations Committee.
As a passionate owner-breeder and an accomplished business leader, Cox brings a deep understanding of the British racing and breeding sectors combined with large-scale commercial expertise.
Industry Background and Experience
Cox has established deep roots within the racing and breeding community over more than 15 years as an owner. He currently has four horses in training and stations 10 broodmares at Shade Oak Stud, alongside holding shares in St Leger winner-turned-stallion Logician.
Beyond racehorse ownership, Cox has contributed extensively to industry governance. He has been a member of the TBA board of trustees since November 2021, chairs the BHA’s Jump Pattern Committee, and serves on the High Quality Horse group supporting the production and development of top-class horses in Britain.
Corporate Leadership and Commercial Background
Professionally, Cox is a master brewer who spent over 30 years in the international beverage sector, focusing on global supply chain management, turnarounds, and commercial growth. In 2014, he became European president and CEO of Molson Coors, subsequently expanding his remit to cover Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific for a business generating approximately £2 billion in turnover.
His corporate background also includes robust government relations and lobbying experience through board positions with the Portman Group, the British Beer & Pub Association, and The Brewers of Europe.
Leadership Perspectives
Reflecting on his appointment, Simon Cox emphasized the importance of collaboration and growth:
“It is an honour to be appointed Chair of the British Horseracing Authority at such an important moment for racing and breeding… It’s no secret that we face significant challenges and my focus will be on ensuring racing works together to address these, with a particular emphasis on growing participation in the sport, our customer base and critically our income streams.”
Nominations Committee Chair Kyrsten Halley praised the selection process:
“He was a first-class candidate throughout a highly competitive recruitment process, with some exceptionally skilled and high calibre individuals… His strong vision for how we make progress in key areas like the sport’s governance, growth strategy, equine and human welfare and government relations left us in no doubt that he has the credentials to provide exceptional leadership.”
BHA Interim Chair and Senior Independent Director David Jones added:
“Simon is already a very well-established and deeply respected figure within our industry, known among participants and racecourses as an advocate for British racing and bloodstock and for his considered and collaborative leadership approach.”
