However, both insist they will remain involved in the racing industry.
Fitt and Rodger have played significant roles in transforming New Zealand’s racing sector since Entain took over the operational control of the TAB on 1 June 2023 under a 25-year agreement.
Their leadership has been instrumental in increasing stakes and revenue, with both executives credited for their influence in revitalising the sector.
Entain Australia CEO Dean Shannon confirmed the resignations, stating that while he is disappointed to see them leave, he s their decision to transition into the racing and breeding side of the business.
Fitt cited his ion for racing and bloodstock as his primary motivation for leaving.
He emphasised that his departure from Entain does not mean he is leaving New Zealand racing, as he still sees substantial opportunities for growth within the industry.
He also highlighted the importance of improving efficiency in order to achieve sustainable long-term funding.
Meanwhile Rodger, who has been integral in modernising New Zealand’s wagering landscape, expressed a similar sentiment, stating that while his time in the wagering industry is ending, his commitment to New Zealand racing remains strong.
Having spent nearly two years overseeing the integration of Entain and the TAB, he now aims to shift his focus more toward the racing sector.He acknowledged the significant progress made in modernising the New Zealand wagering sector, and expressed confidence that the industry is in a strong position moving forward.
Entain lobbies for optimism
The leadership exits come at a turbulent time for Entain, which recently saw its global CEO, Gavin Isaacs, resign amid ongoing challenges.
His departure, just five months after accepting the role full-time, combined with the resignations of Fitt and Rodger, marks a period of significant upheaval for the company.
Entain is currently facing multiple regulatory investigations and lawsuits. The company has itted that these probes are likely to result in major financial impairments, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding its future.
Questions have emerged about how Entain — then GVC Holdings — conducted its operations in Turkey. There have been allegations of extensive bribery to secure its position in the market, which it later relinquished.
That investigation eventually led to Entain reaching a £585m Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) with the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (S).
The company has also faced probes into its activity in other countries, including Australia.
Despite the departures, Entain and the TAB remain committed to ing New Zealand racing through sponsorship deals and bonus schemes designed to encourage greater participation in horse ownership.
Shannon assured stakeholders that the company’s investment and involvement in the industry will not be impacted by these resignations.
To maintain stability within Entain New Zealand, Sam Moncur, the deputy chief financial officer, has been promoted to managing director.
