The Gambling Commission has announced the appointment of Andrew Rhodes as its new Interim Chief Executive.Rhodes replaces Neil McArthur who departed the Gambling Commission in March after a controversial time in the hot seat, with serious gambling reform ushered in. 

With over 20 years of private and public sector experience, Rhodes will join the Gambling Commission later this month to take up the post for an 18-month period.

Andrew joins the Commission from Swansea University where he was Registrar and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to his role in higher education, he has held senior roles at a range of organisations including Department for Work and Pensions, Food Standards Agency and the DVLA.

 “The Gambling Commission is one of the world’s highest profile and most respected regulators so I am delighted to join the team at such an important time,” Rhodes said. 

“Protecting the public and players from gambling harm will continue to be central to our work and I am looking forward to meeting people from across the industry and those with lived experience to understand the issues and opportunities which lay ahead.

“This is a great time to have the opportunity to work in gambling regulation. 

“The Government’s Gambling Act Review represents a fantastic opportunity to deliver real and sustained improvements in the way gambling is provided and regulated. As the regulator we have a unique and important role to play at the forefront of that change.”

Gambling Commission Chairman Bill Moyes said Rhodes “first class track record” and ability to lead teams across a variety of businesses had been critical in his recruitment. 

“I have no doubt he will prove to be an exceptional appointment here at the Commission and it comes at a time when the spotlight is on gambling regulation and operators,” he said. 

“I am looking forward to working closely with Andrew as I prepare to hand over to a new chair in September.”

The United Kingdom Gambling Commission is in charge of everything real money gambling in Britain, including online casinos and sports betting sites.