The European Breeders' Fund has announced that Kerry Murphy has been appointed chief executive officer of the organization, effective Jan. 1, 2013.
Murphy, who has run the Racing Post Yearling Bonus Scheme since 2009, succeeds Sam Sheppard, the EBF's CEO from its founding 30 years ago who is retiring at the end of 2012.
"I am delighted to join the team at the EBF at such an important time," said Murphy, who worked for Juddmonte Farms for 12 years and was racing secretary to Sir Michael Stoute for six years. "The EBF plays a hugely important role in boosting prize money via the support of the breeding industry which is crucial during the ongoing economic problems we are facing.
"I, together with Philip Freedman and Harry McCalmont, interviewed several first-class candidates for the job," Charles-Henri de Moussac, chairman of the EBF coordinating committee, said in a release. "Kerry's experience within the bloodstock business persuaded us that she was the right person to take over from Sam. She will be joining the small, dedicated and tenacious team at Stanstead House, and we look forward to seeing the EBF continue to thrive under her leadership."