Former Victoria Racing Club Acting Chief Executive Julian Sullivan will become interim Chief Executive at Perth Racing, following this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Mr Sullivan, who is currently Chief Operating Officer at the VRC, was honoured with Life Membership of the VRC on AAMI Victoria Derby Day following an outstanding contribution to the Club.

Mr Sullivan joined the VRC in 1978 and has held varied industry and club roles. He became General Manager Membership in 1997.

Appointed Executive General Manager Club Services in 2011, his portfolio included racing strategy and operations, membership and public products and services, The Chairman’s Club, corporate hospitality, catering, customer service, and the outdoor events business.

From April 2014 until July 2015 he held the position of VRC Acting Chief Executive.

VRC Chairman Mr Michael Burn acknowledged Mr Sullivan’s impact on the VRC, particularly the role that he has played in membership growth.

The VRC now has the largest race club membership in the world with over 30,000 members.

Mr Sullivan’s achievements have helped to shape the VRC and industry of today: implementation of a Young Members strategy, the introduction of loyalty programs to race clubs (the VRC’s Racing Rewards program) and expansion of hospitality options.

“During his career at the VRC, Julian has proved to be an outstanding executive. His passion for excellent customer service and engagement with our customers is well known.

"This, combined with his deep knowledge of the racing industry, both domestically and internationally, has allowed Julian to make a strong contribution to the success of the VRC over a long period,” Mr Burn said.