IIntroduction
The FBAA Mentorship Program offers aspiring bloodstock agents with the opportunity to shadow an FBAA member at thoroughbred sales, engage in remote learning, and receive ongoing mentorship and career advice. Over a 6-week period from May to June 2025, the mentorship will operate as a support system whereby the mentee can gain advice, information, and access to resources and research, helping to expand their knowledge and experience in the industry.
The mentorship program will support the FBAA Strategic Plan to create pathways into the bloodstock industry as well as fostering education and encouraging best practice.
Program Objectives
- Educate mentees about best practice in the industry. Through shadowing at the sales and mentorship engagement, mentees will gain insights and expertise from experienced FBAA members, equipping them with a base level of knowledge and skills to enhance their careers.
- Promote principles of integrity, accountability, and ethics. Mentees will be exposed to the FBAA Code of Ethics from the outset of their careers in the industry.
- Formalise a pathway to becoming a qualified bloodstock agent.
Expected Outcomes
- A value-adding industry program that will foster the development of skilled professionals in the bloodstock industry by attracting new talent and nurturing their growth.
- Promotion of integrity across the industry: Participants will uphold ethical standards and best practices, positively impacting the reputation of the profession and the industry.
- Assistance with career progression for aspiring bloodstock agents. The mentorship program provides a platform for FBAA members to give something back to the industry and the profession.
- Establishment of a flexible and sustainable mentorship program.
Proposed Structure
The Mentorship Program will span a period of six weeks, combining various modes of engagement. The program will include:
- Face-to-face, online, and telephone meetings – mentors and mentees will engage in regular discussions to exchange knowledge, guidance, and feedback.
- Agent shadowing/assisting at sales – mentees will accompany FBAA agents during sales events, observing and participating in various aspects of the selection, buying, and selling process.
- Theoretical submission – mentees will need to submit a written assignment to the FBAA Board to demonstrate their learning across the program.
Timeline
To alleviate pressure on stud farms, racing stables and FBAA members, it is proposed that the mentorship program will take place during the Magic Millions National Sale and the Inglis Great Southern Sale and conclude before the commencement of the breeding season. This timeline will allow for optimal commitment from all parties involved.
- Applications open Friday 28 February 2025.
- Applications close on Friday March 28, 2025.
- Successful applicants will be notified by Monday 14 April 2025.
- The Bloodstock Mentorship Program spans a duration of six weeks, commencing on Monday 19 May, 2025, and concludes Friday 27 June, 2025.
Execution
The Mentorship Program will be overseen by the Board of the FBAA and the individual mentorships executed by FBAA Members.
Applicants
The Board are looking for applicants with;
- Two years of practical hands-on horsemanship experience at stud farms and/or racing stables.
- Aspirations to pursue a career in the bloodstock industry and a commitment to expanding knowledge and expertise within the field of bloodstock.
- Ability and appetite to conduct research, complete written tasks, work safely around horses and follow instructions.
- Proficiency with computer software including Microsoft Office and industry specific software databases.
- All applicants must also be willing to participate in interviews either online or in-person as well as commit to making themselves available for key dates/hours during the six-week program.
Applications
Applications must be addressed to The Board of the Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia. Online applications can be submitted through the FBAA website. Applications can also be emailed to info@bloodstockagents.com.au and must include a copy of the participant’s current CV as well as two industry character references. The applicant is encouraged to tell The Board why they would like to be considered for the program and to expand on their career aspirations.
Mentorship Program cost
The mentorship is unpaid although the cost of flights and accommodation for mentees to attend the Magic Millions National Weanling Sale and Inglis Great Southern Sale will be covered by the FBAA.
Qualification and Acknowledgement
At the conclusion of the mentorship, a qualification process will be conducted to assess the mentee’s progress and ensure the objectives of the program have been met. A formal acknowledgment will be provided to mentees, recognising their successful completion of the mentorship.
About the FBAA
The Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia Limited was formed in 1988 to maintain, improve and develop the standards, integrity, and services of Bloodstock Agents throughout Australia, ensuring clients are best represented in all business dealings.
The Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia (FBAA) is a leading organization committed to advancing excellence and integrity in the bloodstock industry. With a focus on education and professional development, FBAA empowers its members to thrive in thoroughbred breeding and trading.
Apply
To apply, please fill out the Application Form below
Alternatively, you can fill out the downloadable Application Form and email it to info@bloodstockagents.com.au