Giles Thompson has been appointed chief executive of Racing Victoria after acting in the position since Bernard Saundry finished up in the role at the end of last year.

Thompson started with RV in September 2015 as chief financial officer, having previously been chief executive of Betfair Australia.

"The Board has been impressed with Giles' performance in the acting capacity and the surety around the governance model for Racing Victoria, following this week's special general meeting, now allows us to move forward with this important appointment," RV's acting chairman Mike Hirst said.