Gambling - Gambling Commission announce new CEO

The appointment of Neil McArthur as their new CEO has been announced this week by the Gambling Commission. His appointment follows the departure of Sarah Harrison MBE at the end of February  (to take up the role of Director General, Corporate Services at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS)).  Neil had be acting as interim CEO since Sarah’s departure.

Neil joined the Commission in October 2006 as general Counsel before taking up an Executive Director role within the Commission in April 2016.

Neil is a  well-known face at the Commission and has been involved in many of the leading meetings and initiatives.  Although a new CEO, there will be an element of continuity and familiarity from his previous work at the Commission.

In a statement released to announce his appointment Neil is quoted as saying:

“I’m looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead to make gambling fairer and safer. I am really proud of the Commission’s achievements over the last 12 years, but there is a lot more to do. Ensuring consumers are empowered to make informed choices about gambling while addressing and reducing the harms that can come from gambling is a challenge that cannot be overcome by us alone. It needs continued strong partnerships with other regulators, consumer representatives and government. Most importantly, it requires gambling operators to treat their customers fairly and they can expect us to be tough but fair in making sure they meet their responsibilities.”