Andrew Rhodes is set to step down as Gambling Commission CEO on 30 April to take on a new role.
Announcing his departure on Monday, 9 February, the regulator said it will soon begin the process of sourcing an interim CEO to fill the gap soon to be left by Rhodes.
During the transitionary period, deputy CEO Sarah Gardner will move up as acting CEO to cover “areas of work that [Rhodes] will step back from during this transitional period”.
The GC said: “The board has full confidence in the executive team’s ability to continue delivering on the strategic priorities during this period.”
Rhodes was confirmed as the regulator’s permanent CEO in May 2022, having joined the GC in June 2021 on an 18-month contract.
He was selected to replace the GC’s former chief, Neil McArthur, who left the post in March 2021.
Rhodes joined the Birmingham-based body from Swansea University where he served as COO and registrar.
During his time leading the GC, the white paper into the Gambling Act 2005 review was published in April 2023.
Rhodes has also led the charge against the growth of the black market, using his keynote at ICE in 2025 to issue a stark warning to operators using unlicensed suppliers.
The GC said Rhodes had “overseen a transformation of the Commission and how it regulates the gambling industry”.
During his tenure, the GC rolled out the Gambling Survey for Great Britain, oversaw the transition of the fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn and launched black market research.
Rhodes said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Gambling Commission through such an important period of change.
“I am proud of the progress we have made to strengthen regulation, improve consumer protections and ensure gambling is safer and fairer. I leave with confidence in the organisation, its people and the work still to come.”
Charles Counsell, the GC interim chair, added: “Andrew has provided outstanding leadership for nearly five years and leaves a strong legacy.
“He has led the Commission through major reform, strengthened our regulatory approach and ensured consumer protection has remained at the heart of our work.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Andrew for his dedication and wish him every success in the future.”
Grainne Hurst, Betting and Gaming Council CEO, commented: “On behalf of the betting and gaming industry, I would like to thank Andrew for his professionalism in leading our regulator.
“His hands-on approach and willingness to engage directly with the industry helped foster a more informed and productive working relationship, even where views did not always align.
“Throughout his time in post, Andrew recognised the importance of strong consumer protections alongside the fact that around 22.5 million adults in Britain enjoy a bet each month. I wish him every success for the future.
“I look forward to working closely with Sarah Gardner as she steps up as acting chief executive during this transitional period.”
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The post Gambling Commission CEO to step down in April first appeared on EGR Intel.
Andrew Rhodes to leave the regulator later this year to pursue new opportunities, with deputy CEO Sarah Gardner to step up during transition period
The post Gambling Commission CEO to step down in April first appeared on EGR Intel.