Woodbine Entertainment Board Brings New Experts

Key Appointments

Woodbine Entertainment has announced the addition of two prominent leaders to its Board of Directors: Mark Krembil and Tom Mungham. This strategic move is expected to enhance the organisation's ability to guide Ontario's horse racing industry toward a thriving and sustainable future. Both Krembil and Mungham bring a wealth of experience in horse racing, business leadership, and regulatory affairs, making them valuable assets for Woodbine’s ambitious vision.

Jim Lawson, Executive Chair of Woodbine Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm for the new appointments. He highlighted the critical role Krembil and Mungham will play in driving the company's growth. Lawson highlighted that their leadership, industry insight, and experience will be pivotal as Woodbine continues its efforts to strengthen the horse racing industry, which supports approximately 25,000 jobs across Ontario.

A Pillar in Horse Racing and Philanthropy

Mark Krembil, a key figure in Canadian horse racing, is the principal of Chiefswood Stables, a leading Thoroughbred racing stable. Chiefswood, founded by his father Robert Krembil, has made a name for itself with significant wins, including the 2004 Queen's Plate and the 2024 Woodbine Oaks. Beyond horse racing, Krembil is a well-regarded philanthropist and entrepreneur, involved in the biotechnology sector through Chiefswood Private Capital, which he founded. His leadership extends to multiple organisations, including Brain Canada, where he chairs the Governance Committee. Through the Krembil Foundation, he also supports groundbreaking research in neuroscience and immune diseases. Additionally, the Chiefswood After Care Program, spearheaded by Stacey Krembil, ensures long-term care for their retired horses.

Upon accepting the position on Woodbine’s Board, Krembil noted his deep connection to the racing community, expressing excitement to contribute to shaping a promising future for the sport in Ontario. He highlighted his commitment to supporting not just owners and breeders, but also trainers and everyone involved in the Woodbine ecosystem.

Bringing Regulatory Expertise to the Board

Tom Mungham, the former CEO and Registrar of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), brings a wealth of regulatory experience to the board. His tenure at the AGCO from 2020 to 2023 was marked by significant achievements, including the creation of Canada’s first regulated framework for online gaming. Mungham has also collaborated extensively with industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to advance public policy and foster economic development. Before joining the AGCO, he held senior positions with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and he currently serves on several boards, including those of historical and community organisations.

Reflecting on his new role, Mungham mentioned his long-standing working relationship with Woodbine and his admiration for their management team. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to contribute to Woodbine's ongoing success and to positively impact the industry at large.

Krembil will serve on both the Thoroughbred Racing and Audit Committees, while Mungham will take on roles in the Standardbred Racing and Governance Committees. Jim Lawson remarked that both leaders bring complementary expertise to the board, further enhancing the collective experience, which covers not only horse racing but also essential sectors related to Woodbine’s operations.

The appointments of Mark Krembil and Tom Mungham are subject to final approval by the AGCO, but they are expected to make significant contributions to Woodbine Entertainment’s future success.