Brigid Simmonds has announced that she will be stepping down as Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council later this year.
Simmonds will step down as Chair of the BGC on April 20, a position she has held since October 2019.
In addition, the council’s Executive Committee has stated that its Chief Executive, Michael Dugher, will take over as Chair from April 21.
“It has been a privilege to play my part in the development of the BGC since its formation in 2019 and it has been an honour to represent the 110,000 people whose jobs rely on the regulated betting and gaming industry,” commented Simmonds on her departure.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our members, large and small, to raise standards, create a culture of safer gaming and build public and institutional trust in our world-class industry.
“I would like to thank the Executive Committee, colleagues, members, charities and stakeholders, who have supported me and worked very hard to deliver all of the achievements of which the BGC is rightly proud.”
BGC added that the search for a new CEO will be led by an external recruitment company and will begin immediately.
Dugher added: “I would like to pay tribute to Brigid for all the incredible work she has done at the BGC. She has made a massive contribution during her four and a half years as Chairman, launching the organisation and bringing together the different sectors.
“She has also led a change programme across the industry that has seen a relentless focus on raising standards on safer gambling. Brigid is a high-integrity leader who is rightly held in huge regard, not just in the betting and gaming industry, but across so many other industries and sectors, and across the political divide.
“Together with a new CEO in the spring, I look forward as Chair to building on that success – continuing and intensifying the work of change on standards, speaking up for the tens of thousands of men and women who work in the industry, and ensuring that the millions of people who enjoy a regular bet can do so enjoyably and safely.”
