The Australian Turf Club board has confirmed Michael Crismale as its new chairman and announced Laurie Macri as vice-chairman.

At a meeting of the board on Monday, Mark McInnes resigned, joining outgoing chairman John Cornish and director Alan Osburg in stepping down.

Crismale said he was honoured to be taking over as chairman of the ATC as Sydney racing entered one of its most exciting periods in many years and was in full preparation for the 2014 autumn carnival.

"John Cornish has been a strong and passionate leader and he has seen the ATC through some important and challenging projects, including the merger of the AJC and STC, redevelopment of Royal Randwick, the building of the new grandstand, and the early planning for a light rail network around the racecourse," Crismale said.

"Laurie and I are greatly looking forward to working with all the board, new and old members, as well as Racing NSW, Club Members and all of our sponsors, stakeholders and customers as we take Sydney racing forward."

Crismale is also on the board of Sydney FC and is the founder and executive chairman of Matrium Technologies.

Macri is a prominent racehorse owner and an executive director at Macquarie Bank.