Former Rank Group CEO Makes Further Horse Racing Moves With Tote Post

John O’Reilly is set to make a further foray into horse racing after accepting a Non-Executive Director role with Tote Group. The deal with the 98-year-old group represents a significant coup given O’Reilly’s vast experience in the betting industry.

After being confirmed as the Chair of horse racing authority Weatherbys last month, the former Rank Group CEO will join the Tote board on May 1. And O’Reilly’s move signals an exciting time for Tote.

Boasting an impressive CV

With over 35 years spent working across the horse racing, betting and gaming sectors, O’Reilly certainly boasts an impressive CV. Among the notable posts he previously held, included a stint as Non-Executive Director of William Hill and serving as Managing Director of Coral’s digital business.

Despite revealing his decision to stand down as Rank Group CEO in January, O’Reilly is showing no signs of slowing down. Indeed, O’Reilly, who turns 66 next month, previously admitted he feels like he’s in his twenties, claiming he still has “bundles of energy”, underlying an exceptional work ethic.

O’Reilly part of a significant Tote shake-up

The move for O’Reilly comes amid a significant shake-up at Tote. Recently, Chief Operating Officer Dave Hammond resigned after just eight months in the role, while former KPMG figure Andrew Weir was appointed as a Non-Executive Director.

Moreover, horse racing has come under the microscope over the past few months. There was plenty of tension pervading the sport in the run-up to the tax hikes announced in the November budget. Despite escaping the worst of it, some betting companies announced they would be pulling back on sponsorship and promotional activities due to the tougher climate.

Brighter days ahead for Tote

Although horse racing has come under pressure to make itself more engaging for a younger audience, O’Reilly is itching to get started in his new role. In a statement published on Tote, O’Reilly said:

“Like so many people deeply involved in gambling and horse racing, I have had many connections with, and fond memories of the Tote over the years.

“While the Tote has a century of history, I believe it has a very valuable role to play in the future of horse racing, both in the UK and Ireland and around the globe. The Tote has an impressive story to tell of innovation and growth in recent years, and through further enhancements to the pool product, I believe the Tote has its best days ahead of it.”

Meanwhile, John Williamson, Tote Group’s Chairman, reacted to the appointment, as he said:

“We are pleased to welcome John to the UK Tote Group Board. As one of the most experienced and respected leaders in the betting industry, John will provide valuable support to the Tote team, particularly in relation to product development and customer experience.”

Leaving Rank in good shape

During his seven years at the helm of Rank, O’Reilly steered the company through choppy waters. Judging by their latest set of financial results, O’Reilly has left the company in robust shape after the firm confirmed a like-for-like (LFL) operating profit of £68 million for 2025/26.

Rank has been bracing itself for the rise in gambling taxes, and the UK’s digital division grew by 2% in the Q3 2025/26 trading update. While O’Reilly will be fondly remembered for his successful spell at Rank, he has new challenges that lie ahead of him. It will be fascinating to see how he gets on at Tote.