Manitoba Horse Council Appoints New Executive Director

On October 4, 2021, Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) welcomed a new Executive Director (ED), Diane David. 

The selection committee and MHC board of directors chose Diane for her extensive experience working in the horse industry and for non-profit organizations. She joined us from the Whitemud Equine Learning Centre Association in Edmonton, Alberta, where as ED she expanded the scope of the centre from a small members-only organization into a community-based organization providing inclusive, accessible recreational programs and services for all ages and abilities. The board appreciated Diane’s proven ability to engage stakeholders at all levels, manage budgets, and open up new revenue streams. In this role, Diane worked closely with the Alberta Equestrian Federation to promote the benefits of membership and in support of their initiatives including show sanctioning, training, biosecurity, insurance, and other horse welfare programs.

Diane has relocated from Alberta to Manitoba to take on the ED role and steward MHC into the future. We believe that Diane coming from out-of-province will bring new ideas to our local community. She is energized and ready to represent the interests of Manitoba’s horse community in a way that promotes our local beliefs, values, and priorities while making space for collaboration and problem solving.

After four and a half years of service with MHC, John Savard is retiring from the position of ED to enjoy more time with his family and friends. We take this opportunity to give a special thank you to John. Leading any organization through the COVID-19 pandemic is a challenge, let alone being at the helm of a sport organization that faced some of the toughest restrictions. John has handled the past 18 months with patience and professionalism. During his tenure as ED, he also helped broker the stabling arrangement with Cavalia (the revenue from which allowed MHC to make improvements to our facility at Birds Hill Park) and has been heavily involved in navigating the relationship between Equestrian Canada and the provincial sport organizations. John leaves some big boots to fill but we are sure Diane will be a worthy successor.

November 7: Mini Master Classes Resume Online 

Twelve online sessions covering some of the most important equine management issues. These classes will be of interest to coaches and riders alike. 

More details on HERE.

Photo: Canstock/Bagicat