ONE of York's top jobs is up for grabs.

The high-profile post of Chief Executive of York Racecourse which commands a "six-figure package" has been advertised in the racing press.

Current racecourse manager and clerk of the course John Smith is due to retire in November 2002.

Course spokesman James Brennan said: "We are a little ahead of ourselves as Mr Smith doesn't retire until November next year.

"But advertising for the post now is part of our planning strategy it's very important to the future of the course and racing.

"It may be that the course committee looks at some form of shadowing with Mr Smith but that has yet to be decided."

The new Chief Executive will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the racecourse and its finances.

Work on the racecourse's £20 million stand is set to start later this year and completed by 2003.

Evening Press racing correspondent Tom O'Ryan said John Smith would be a hard act to follow.

He said: "Chief executive is obviously a very important role - advertising the post so early proves that point.

"It's not the sort of job you can just walk into and I'm sure candidates will have an opportunity to shadow Mr Smith

"Mr Smith has done a superb job and I'm sure the racecourse committee will get some high profile candidates.

"It involves far more than just keeping people happy on race day."

The job advertisement says: "This challenging opportunity will appeal to a business person of significant stature, with a proven track record of success achieved in a consumer-driven commercial environment, which is both multi-faceted and highly demanding.

"The successful candidate does not need past experience of the racing industry but should have an interest in the turf.

"Integrity, energy, enthusiasm and first class leadership skills will be combined with notable administration and commercial talents and a passion for delivering outstanding results."

Mr Smith has held the high-pressure post for the last 12 years.

Updated: 08:26 Tuesday, September 25, 2001