The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has officially welcomed Grainne Hurst as its new CEO, a role she steps into with a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the gambling industry. The news of her appointment was first announced in April, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the BGC. Her predecessor, Michael Dugher, who held the position of CEO, has now transitioned to the role of BGC Chair, succeeding Brigid Simmonds, who stepped down after serving in that capacity.

Grainne Hurst Officially Begins Role as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC)

Hurst’s Extensive Experience in the Gaming Sector

Grainne Hurst brings a decade of high-level expertise from her tenure at Entain, one of the world’s leading gambling companies. At Entain, she most recently held the position of Group Corporate Affairs Director, where she led the company’s engagement with governments and public stakeholders. Her role in overseeing Entain’s rebranding from GVC Holdings was a key milestone in the company’s growth, further solidifying her strategic acumen and leadership.

One of Hurst’s most notable contributions during her time at Entain was the development and implementation of the safer gambling strategy, “Changing for the Bettor”. This initiative underscored her commitment to responsible gambling, focusing on safeguarding customers and promoting fair play. Additionally, she served as a board member of the Entain Foundation, an organization dedicated to community investment and responsible gambling programs.

Hurst’s breadth of experience is further enhanced by her role as a special advisor to the UK Government, along with her extensive background in senior positions across both the land-based and online gambling sectors. Notably, she also played a crucial role in helping to establish the international arm of Global Gaming Women, an organization promoting gender diversity in the industry.

Hurst’s Vision for the Future of the BGC

As she embarks on her role as CEO of the BGC, Hurst is clear about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In her first statement, she expressed enthusiasm for leading an organization that represents many of the most iconic brands in both the UK and global gaming markets. She acknowledged the substantial work that remains to be done, particularly in delivering and implementing the key proposals outlined in the UK Government’s White Paper on gambling reforms.

The White Paper, published in 2023, set out various measures aimed at enhancing player protection and modernizing gambling regulations in the UK. Many of the proposals included were directly advocated for by members of the BGC, highlighting the organization’s commitment to promoting a safe and responsible gambling environment.

Hurst also took the opportunity to thank Michael Dugher for his contributions to the BGC during his tenure as CEO, particularly his work in establishing the BGC as the voice of the regulated gambling industry. She looks forward to collaborating with him as he takes on the role of Chair, ensuring a smooth transition and a continued focus on raising standards across the sector.

Michael Dugher’s Legacy and Role as BGC Chair

As Hurst assumes her new responsibilities, Michael Dugher moves into the role of BGC Chair. Dugher’s leadership as CEO was instrumental in shaping the BGC into a powerful advocate for the industry, representing thousands of workers and millions of customers in the UK’s gambling sector. His focus on safer gambling standards and the responsible use of technology has left a lasting impact on the industry.

In his remarks, Dugher warmly welcomed Hurst, expressing confidence in her ability to lead the BGC into its next phase of development. He praised her vision, industry knowledge, and commitment to fostering innovation while prioritizing safety and responsibility within the gambling ecosystem. Dugher’s transition to Chair ensures continuity within the BGC, as the organization continues its work to raise the bar for industry practices and player protection.

The Future of the Betting and Gaming Council Under Hurst’s Leadership

The BGC, under Hurst’s leadership, is poised to continue its mission of representing the interests of the UK’s regulated betting and gaming industry. With over 95% of the UK’s licensed betting shops, casinos, and online gaming businesses under its purview, the BGC plays a critical role in ensuring that industry standards remain high, particularly in the areas of player safety, fairness, and responsible gambling.

Hurst’s tenure as CEO is expected to bring a renewed focus on innovation, ensuring that the gambling industry remains responsive to emerging trends and challenges. As the UK’s regulatory landscape evolves, the BGC will be at the forefront of advocating for balanced policies that protect consumers while allowing the industry to thrive.

Moreover, Hurst’s experience in corporate affairs means she is adept at navigating complex regulatory environments, a skill that will be invaluable as the BGC continues to engage with the UK Government on the implementation of the White Paper reforms. Her ability to build relationships with policymakers and stakeholders will be crucial in ensuring that the BGC remains an effective voice for the industry.

Conclusion

Grainne Hurst’s appointment as the new CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council marks a new chapter for the organization. With a proven track record in both corporate leadership and responsible gambling advocacy, she brings the expertise needed to guide the BGC through a rapidly changing industry landscape. Supported by the newly appointed Chair, Michael Dugher, the BGC will continue to champion high standards, safer gambling, and innovation across the UK’s betting and gaming sectors.

FAQs About Grainne Hurst’s Appointment as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC)

1. Who is Grainne Hurst and what is her new role?

Grainne Hurst is the newly appointed CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). She takes over from Michael Dugher, who has transitioned to the role of BGC Chair.

2. What was Grainne Hurst’s previous role before joining the BGC?

Before joining the BGC, Grainne Hurst served as the Group Corporate Affairs Director at Entain. In this role, she led the company’s engagement with government and public sectors, played a key role in the rebranding from GVC to Entain, and developed the safer gambling strategy, “Changing for the Bettor”.

3. What notable initiatives did Hurst lead at Entain?

At Entain, Hurst led the “Changing for the Bettor” safer gambling strategy and was instrumental in the company’s rebranding from GVC Holdings to Entain. She also served as a board member of the Entain Foundation.

4. What are Hurst’s qualifications for the CEO role at the BGC?

Grainne Hurst brings extensive experience from her time at Entain, where she handled corporate affairs and strategic initiatives. She has also worked as a special advisor to the UK Government, held senior roles in both land-based and online gambling sectors, and helped establish the international arm of Global Gaming Women.

5. What did Grainne Hurst say about her new role as CEO of the BGC?

Grainne Hurst expressed her enthusiasm for leading the BGC, acknowledging the significant work ahead, particularly in implementing proposals from the recent White Paper on gambling reforms. She also thanked Michael Dugher for his work as CEO and looks forward to collaborating with him in his new role as Chair.

6. What is the White Paper on gambling reforms, and how does it relate to Hurst’s role?

The White Paper on gambling reforms, published in 2023, outlines measures to enhance player protection and modernize gambling regulations in the UK. As CEO, Hurst will play a key role in delivering and implementing these proposals, which were supported by BGC members.

7. What will Michael Dugher’s role be now that he has transitioned to BGC Chair?

Michael Dugher will serve as the Chair of the BGC, focusing on providing strategic oversight and continuing to represent the interests of the gambling industry. His transition to Chair ensures continuity in leadership and collaboration with Grainne Hurst.

8. How does Hurst plan to advance the BGC’s objectives?

Grainne Hurst plans to advance the BGC’s objectives by focusing on innovation, player safety, and responsible gambling. Her background in developing strategies and navigating regulatory environments will be crucial in guiding the BGC through industry changes.

9. What is the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), and what is its mission?

The BGC is an organization representing the regulated betting and gaming industry in the UK. Its mission is to advocate for high standards, promote safer gambling practices, and ensure the industry’s interests are well-represented.