The United Kingdom Gambling Commission has appointed a new interim chief executive to replace the current acting CEO, Sarah Gardner.
Andrew Rhodes will serve as interim CE for a period of 18 months.
Last March, Neil McArthur suddenly left the helm of the gambling authority following the collapse of Football Index.
Andrew Rhodes has held a number of leadership positions, including in the Food Standards Agency and the Department for Work and Pensions.
As per the chairman of the UKGC, Bill Moyes:
“I have no doubt he will prove to be an exceptional appointment here at the Commission and it comes at a time when the spotlight is on gambling regulation and operators. I am looking forward to working closely with Andrew as I prepare to hand over to a new chair in September.”
Rhodes said that he was “delighted” to join the team of one of the world’s highest-profile and most respected regulators, especially at such an important time.
“Protecting the public and players from gambling harm will continue to be central to our work and I am looking forward to meeting people from across the industry and those with lived experience to understand the issues and opportunities which lay ahead,” he said.
“This is a great time to have the opportunity to work in gambling regulation. The Government’s Gambling Act Review represents a fantastic opportunity to deliver real and sustained improvements in the way gambling is provided and regulated. As the regulator we have a unique and important role to play at the forefront of that change.”