Ian Brown is to become Chief Executive Officer of Flutter Entertainment’s UK and Ireland business as Conor Grant steps aside for a planned career break.
Grant has resigned the role and will depart before the close of the year to spend more time with his family after more than 20 years in the online gambling sector.
“I have been immensely proud to lead the UK&I business through such a momentous period for both Flutter and the wider industry,” he said.
“Flutter’s market leading brands, talented team and approach to safer gambling are what sets the business apart.
“I have no doubt that the business is in good hands and I look forward to seeing it continue to grow sustainably and responsibly into the future.”
Brown, the former CEO of Booking.com’s Trips division, which includes Rentalcars.com, will join the group in September, where he will gain responsibility for the Paddy Power, Sky Betting and Gaming, Betfair and Tombola brands in the region.
“I have followed the impressive story of Flutter and its brands for many years now, and I am delighted to be joining the UK&I business in September,” Brown noted.
“Flutter has a fantastic portfolio of iconic brands and I look forward to helping develop their leadership position in the online entertainment space.”
Brown and Grant, who joined Sky Betting & Gaming 12 years ago, are to collaborate in a bid to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.
“I would like to thank Conor for his significant contribution to Flutter,” explained Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter.
“His work on the strategic vision and direction of our UK&I business has set us in great stead for the future, and his passion and determination to put our customers’ safety at the heart of what we do has anchored our industry-leading ‘Play Well’ strategy.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Conor and will personally miss his sound commercial judgement and keen eye for business opportunities. I’m sorry to see him leave but wish him well for the future.
“I am delighted to welcome a leader of Ian’s calibre to our executive team. He brings with him broad experience leading online businesses from a range of sectors, including travel, hospitality, business services, and financial services.
“He has been responsible for successful transformations in multiple large businesses, including global brands Booking.com and Rentalcars.com, building scalable tech platforms and organisations with a deep customer focus on ease, accessibility and safety to drive growth.”
