Former GRNSW investigations manager appointed GRSA general manager of integrity & welfare
Greyhound Racing South Australia (GRSA) has advised that they have appointed a former Greyhound Racing New South Wales (GRNSW) investigations manager as General Manager for Integrity and Welfare.
Kelly Rourke, who also lists stints with Tabcorp and the National Rugby League (NRL) on her resume, will commence the new role later this month.
According to a GRSA spokesperson, “Ms Rourke has extensive management experience at an executive level, most recently as the South Australian State Manager for the National Rugby League (NRL).
“She is Chair of the Sport SA Women's Sport Academy Working Group and maintains a passion for sport, having previously played rugby league for England and worked as a player, coach and manager across a number of codes.
“Prior to her time with the NRL, Kelly held senior roles with both Tabcorp and Greyhound Racing NSW, as well as with the police force in Australia and the UK where she enjoyed a highly successful and decorated career spanning 15 years”.
GRSA CEO Bodelle Francis said the industry would benefit immensely from Ms Rourke's expertise.
“We are thrilled to be appointing someone of Kelly's calibre to this important position,” Ms Francis said.
“GRSA takes its commitment to welfare and integrity incredibly seriously, and the creation of this new role is testament to that.
“Kelly's extensive experience across sport, integrity and compliance made her a perfect fit – it's clear that she shares our values and priorities as an organisation.
“In her role, Kelly will provide additional leadership and guidance across our dedicated Animal Welfare, Stewarding and Greyhounds as Pets teams to ensure we continue to set and maintain the highest standards of safety and welfare both on and off the track.”
Accord to GRSA, “The creation of the position adds another layer to GRSA's already comprehensive management of these key areas, working closely with the GM Risk & Compliance, Chief Steward and GAP Manager”.
Rourke's Linkedin profile lists a six-month role as Investigations Manager with GRNSW where responsibilities included to “Lead and develop investigations, investigation plans and avenues of inquiry and strategies to obtain investigation objectives”.
A two-and-a-half year role with Tabcorp in live sports wagering compliance ensued, before managerial roles with the South Australian division of the NRL.
“Throughout my career, I have sought roles that allow me to make a real difference in service and sport, and integrity is often at the heart of that,” Ms Rourke said.
“I am thrilled to be returning to the industry and to be back working with these amazing animals and the passionate South Australian greyhound community.
“Greyhound Racing SA is a progressive, innovative and ambitious governing body and I'm looking forward to helping drive its future success.”