Damian Chun Wing Yap

Primary responsibility

In charge of the Racing Division, supervising 6 different departments who contribute to the smooth running of the 66 race meetings conducted per racing season. The operation have over 200+ staff and 300+ horses.

Departmental Function

Racing Control

• Overseeing the Stipendiary Stewards panel to ensure upholding of the integrity of the sport
• Conduct timely review of the Rules of Racing
• Conduct review and set criteria for all licensed Trainers and Jockeys

Veterinary Department

• Ensure the 300+ horses' health and welfare are maintained
• Provide professional medication and treatment to all horses
• Liaise with overseas jurisdictions in relations to updating medication and quarantine rules

Stables Department

• With a work force over 200 staff and provide world class stabling facilities for 300+ horses
• Ensure all requirements set by trainers are met so that they can operate their business at their highest level

Tracks & Horticulture Department

• Ensure both turf and sand tracks are maintained at their highest level to ensure the smooth running of race meeting s and daily trackwork

International & Owners Liaison Department

• In charge of all import and export of horses
• Liaise with different racing jurisdiction in relations to Macau horses taking part in overseas races
• Work closely with all owners to understand their needs

Racing Registry

• In charge of all entries and decleration for race meetings and barrier trials
• In charge of distribution of prize money to all parties concerned
• Ensure all datas in relations to horses, licensed persons and owners are updated for future use

Primary responsibility

Provide advisory services to business and private investors in the equine industry and equine portfolio management.

Projects Completed

Equine Portfolio Management

2017-2023

• Successfully managed over HKD50 million worth equine portfolios including sales and purchases of bloodstock from both private sale and public auction; setting up training schedule and race planning.

Wexford Stables, Matamata, New Zealand

January 2015

• Led and complete NZD5 million acquisition of the racing and pre-training stables of over 70 acres
• Appointed as the Chief Operating Officer post acquisition. Duties included the setting up of the managing and operational teams and oversee operations of the stable
• Completed the upgrade and expansion of the stable compound facilities as planned within budget

Washpool Lodge, Queensland, Australia

June 2014

• Actively participated in the due diligence review and completion of AUD7.5 million purchase of the farm of over 500 acres
• Appointed as the Chief Operating Officer post completion of acquisition. Duties included the setting up of management and operational teams and oversee operations of the farm
• Successfully expanded the operations of the farm to include breaking-in, pre-training and rehabilitation services
• Launched series of marketing campaign to promote the farm's equine services to racing enthusiast in Asia and Australia
• Established close contact with different government departments in Australia; and
• Managed the annual budget to ensure all financial goals are met

Primary Responsibility

In charge of the daily Stables Operation and the overall supervision and development of 900+ staff, and the management of 1200+ horses and related facilities in Hong Kong. Build close working relationship with 23+ trainers to ensure their businesses are being operated to their satisfaction. The role encompasses the following abilities:

Leadership

• Understand the Club's business decision, translate these objectives into Stable's goals; then plan, lead, motivate and manage the considerable work force of stables employee and administrative staff in accomplishing these goals
• In-depth knowledge of Stables operations; best practices in horse care, staff development and facilities management
• Review and develop policies and procedures to enhance Stables operations effectiveness

Management Effectiveness

• Build harmonious work teams among Stables Operations, multiple departments within the Club and relevant government departments
• Possess keen sense of urgency in resolving problems
• Maintain forward-looking workforce planning and recruitment, employee welfare, discipline and administration
• Identify, develop and drive staff training and development programs
• Make best allocations of assets and people in daily activities
• Identify operational problems and explore possible solution

Financial

• Manage departmental budget of HKD300 million, for Sha Tin, Happy Valley Stables to ensure proper financial controls are exercised

Significant Projects

• Actively involved in the setup of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Paralympics Equestrian Event conducted in Hong Kong; in particular the setting up the main Olympic Stables and Quarantine Stables
• Actively participated in the planning and completion of 2010 Guangzhou Asian Game Equestrian Center