BHA appoints Chris Watts as first Head of Integrity Assurance

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), the governing body of UK racing has confirmed the appointment of Chris Watts to its newly created role of Head of Integrity Assurance.

Watts a former Detective Superintendent for the Metropolitan Police Homicide & Serious Crimes unit, joins the BHA from the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) where he held the position of Anti-Corruption Manager.

The governing body has created the role with a view of advising BHA  leadership and governance on integrity policy and ongoing sports protections against crime and fraud prevention.

Watts who was central in the creation of an ECB Anti-corruption Unit in 2011, addressing serious corruption issues in Cricket has experience in dealing with multiple sports stakeholders on the matter of fighting corruption.

Brant Dunshea, Director of Integrity and Regulatory Operations at the BHA, commented on the appointment of Watts

“We’re delighted to have appointed someone with Chris’s wealth of experience in intelligence management, investigations and sports integrity to what will be a very significant strategic role.

“This appointment was a key focus for the BHA following our integrity review, and we’re excited for Chris to begin his new role which will ensure greater accountability for the performance of our Integrity teams.”

Chris Watts commented on joining the BHA: “Through my work within sports integrity over the past six years, I have developed some understanding of the work of the BHA integrity unit.

“I was brought up with horses; I am passionate about sport and I am very much looking forward to transferring my skills and experience into this new role.”