The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has appointed Gamesys chief Kane Purdy as the trade body’s new chair.
Purdy takes on the position with immediate effect and will become the first chair under the new 12-month term structure put in place.
The position will rotate between BGC members, with each chair remaining in the post for one year.
The BGC represents around 90% of the licensed operators in the UK, including Flutter Entertainment, Entain, evoke, Betfred, Bally’s and Betway.
The trade body’s membership also includes suppliers, smaller bookmakers and land-based casinos.
Purdy replaces Michael Dugher as chair, who stepped down earlier this year after six years with the group.
The former Labour MP, who has since joined global advisory firm Brunswick Group as head of its UK public affairs practice, was the trade body’s first CEO.
He stepped up to chair in April 2024, replacing Brigid Simmonds in the post.
Since his departure in January, CEO Grainne Hurst had been serving as interim chair.
Purdy, a stalwart at Bally’s-owned Gamesys, is also the chair of GamProtect, the single customer view scheme that allows operators to cross-check player patterns and behaviours.
In 2024, Purdy said the scheme was not “Orwellian” and disputed suggestions it could be used by bookmakers to limit and ban punters.
The BGC has been at the forefront of the push back against tax hikes in the UK and the rollout of affordability checks.
However, its lobbying failed to influence the government prior to last November’s Budget, where it was announced remote gaming duty would almost double to 40% and remote general betting duty will increase by two thirds to 25% next year.
Fresh debate around affordability checks have kicked off in recent weeks, with the BGC joining other bodies urging the government to postpone their full implementation.
On his appointment, Purdy said: “I am honoured and delighted to take on the role of chair of the Betting and Gaming Council.
“After 20 years in the industry, I understand the importance of working collectively to meet challenges, raise standards and ensure the regulated sector continues to thrive.
“I look forward to working collaboratively with Grainne and the team, as well as with members from across the industry, to build on the strong progress already made and help shape the future direction of the BGC.”
Hurst added that Purdy will bring “experience, expertise and talent” to the role.
She said: “Kane is a highly respected leader with a deep understanding of both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with operating in a regulated environment.
“He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration, helping to drive forward initiatives that strengthen standards and protections across the sector.
“I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to champion our members, raise standards and support a well-regulated industry that delivers for customers, the economy and communities across the country.”
Arnold Ash is EGR’s executive recruitment partner. It supports ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.
The post Betting and Gaming Council selects Gamesys exec as new chair first appeared on EGR Intel.
Kane Purdy to fill the gap left by Michael Dugher in January, with new 12-month rotating system now in place to allow representatives from member organisations to take up the role
The post Betting and Gaming Council selects Gamesys exec as new chair first appeared on EGR Intel.