Our Thoroughbred Talents Graduate Programme (Business/Marketing Stream) will commence in October 2026. This is a unique two-year programme designed to provide graduates with broad exposure to many aspects of the Irish horse racing industry.
As part of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI), you will gain hands-on experience across a range of functions including marketing, communications, project coordination, and industry engagement. You will contribute to key initiatives that support the promotion, development, and sustainability of the industry.
Programme Rotations
The programme will encompass rotations in the following areas:
HRI Marketing
Graduates will begin their journey within the central HRI Marketing team, gaining exposure to national campaigns, brand development, and audience engagement. You will support the planning and execution of marketing initiatives across digital, social media, and traditional channels, helping to promote racing and drive attendance and participation.
National Equine Campus (New Development)
This rotation offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a major strategic initiative for the industry. Graduates will support a range of business and operational activities within the National Equine Campus, including stakeholder engagement, programme delivery support, and project coordination.
You will also assist in promoting education, training, and wellbeing programmes delivered through Equuip and RACE, while gaining exposure to the broader development and implementation of a large-scale industry project.
Leopardstown Racecourse - Marketing Department
At Leopardstown Racecourse, graduates will gain hands-on experience in racecourse marketing, supporting the delivery of high-profile racing festivals and events. You will work on campaigns that enhance customer experience, drive attendance, and promote the racecourse as a premier sporting and entertainment venue.
Equine Welfare
Graduates will support a range of activities within the Equine Welfare function, a core priority for HRI and the wider industry. This placement will provide experience across welfare administration, industry communications, and project coordination. You will contribute to supporting welfare initiatives, assisting with internal and external communications, coordinating key projects, and providing general administrative support. There will also be opportunities to assist with digital and social media content where relevant, helping to support awareness and engagement.
Programme Experience
In addition to your rotations, you will:
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Contribute to a range of marketing, communications, and business initiatives supporting major race meetings and national programmes
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Gain experience across marketing, content development, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination
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Develop a strong understanding of how commercial, operational, and marketing functions work together to support the racing industry
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Work across HRI locations, including Newbridge (Co. Kildare), KIldare and Leopardstown
Key Qualities We Are Looking For
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Educational Background: Completed a Level 8 honours degree (or higher) in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related discipline within the last two years
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Passion for Marketing: A strong interest in marketing, branding, and customer engagement
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Interest in Racing: Enthusiasm for the horse racing industry and its continued growth
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Creative and Innovative: Ability to think creatively and contribute fresh ideas
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Strong Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Team Player: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
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Relevant Experience: Internships, academic projects, or extracurricular involvement demonstrating marketing or communication skills
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Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced, event-driven environment, with flexibility to work evenings and weekends when required
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Transport: Full driving licence and access to transport is required
Why Join Horse Racing Ireland's Graduate Programme?
This programme offers a unique opportunity to launch your career within a nationally significant and internationally recognised industry. You will gain exposure to a diverse range of business and marketing activities, work on impactful initiatives, and contribute to the ongoing development of Irish horse racing.
Selection Process:
Complete the application questions, providing details about your educational background, relevant experiences, and motivations for joining the graduate programme.
Our recruitment team will review all applications to assess qualifications, skills, and alignment with the programme's objectives. This stage involves a careful examination of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any additional supporting information provided.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to complete a set of selection assessments designed to evaluate aptitude, analytical skills, and suitability for the specific roles within the graduate programme.
Successful candidates from the assessment stage are then invited to participate in first-round interviews. These interviews are typically conducted by the HR team and hiring managers and will focus on exploring your motivations, experiences, and suitability for the programme.
Second-Round interviews with Senior Management
Candidates who successfully navigate the initial interview stage are invited to a second round, where you will have the opportunity to interact with senior management. This stage delves deeper into candidate's potential contributions to the organization and allows senior leaders to assess the alignment of the candidate with the overall strategic goals of the company.
After thorough evaluation and consideration of all stages, the final selection is made. Successful candidates will be offered a place on the Thoroughbred Talents Graduate Programme, marking the beginning of your professional journey with the organisation.
HRI is an equal opportunities employer, and we are committed to inclusivity and accessibility. We will provide any necessary reasonable accommodation for candidates during the interview process.
