The Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has named state public sector stalwart Suzy Neilan as its new CEO.
Neilan, whose tenure officially begins on 1 April, most recently served as the executive director of strategy at the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), a title she has held since November 2021.
During her time with the EPA, Neilan has also stepped in as acting CEO, though her main duties saw her tasked with spearheading the regulatory direction and strategic priorities of the EPA.
Before her time with the agency, Neilan worked in the Victorian Building Authority, joining in 2018 as director of customer experience before being promoted to executive director of service delivery 12 months later.
Prior to moving into the public sector, Neilan spent six years with Tenix Solutions across a series of roles, including working closely with the Victorian Department of Justice.
Confirmation of Neilan as the VGCCC’s new CEO brings an end to Annette Kimmitt’s three-year tenure. Kimmitt confirmed her resignation in December 2024 as she looked to spend more time with her family.
She has served as the VGCCC’s CEO since March 2022 when she was drafted in to replace interim boss Scott May. During her time leading the regulator, the VGCCC has dished out several significant penalties against operators in the state.
In fact, last month the VGCCC completed its lengthy investigation into underage gambling fallings and revealed it had issued A$499,000 (£242,813) worth of fines to land-based and online operators in the process.
Tabcorp accumulated the highest amount of penalty payments, with the bookmaker fined A$274,000 for 43 separate charges, including 30 cases of allowing a minor to gamble and 13 of failing to supervise.
Looking ahead to her new role, Neilan said: “I am excited by the opportunity to contribute to the VGCCC’s success and look forward to working with the dedicated and talented people at the VGCCC to make a positive difference for Victorian communities.”
Chris O’Neill, VGCCC chair, talked up Neilan’s experience as a key factor in her appointment.
“As the VGCCC enters the next phase of the programme of transformation we began three years ago, Suzy’s experience leading digital and technology transformation, and her deep understanding of education, enforcement and compliance will continue to ensure the Commission is well placed to meet future challenges and ensure the integrity, safety and fairness of the gambling industry,” he remarked.
“Suzy’s commitment to achieving regulatory outcomes that benefit Victorians makes her a strong leader to support the Commission and head the agency’s executive leadership team.”
O’Neill also praised the outgoing Kimmitt for shaping the VGCCC during her time at the helm, adding: “Annette’s holistic vision and tenacious drive led the Commission’s transformation in its first years and with strategic focus, determined how we would work with the industry to ensure that our mandate to regulate in the public interest would be met.
“On behalf of all at the VGCCC, I thank Annette for her exemplary service and dedication, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
Arnold Ash is EGR’s Executive Recruitment Partner. They support ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.
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Australian authority turns to experienced former government agency executive director Suzy Neilan to succeed departing chief Annette Kimmitt
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