BGC Welcomes New CEO Grainne Hurst to Lead Industry into a New Era

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has officially welcomed its new Chief Executive Officer, Grainne Hurst, on September 9, 2024. Grainne Hurst, who previously worked with global betting giant Entain for nearly 10 years, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her appointment is part of a broader leadership restructuring at the BGC, which also saw the former CEO, Michael Dugher, transition to the role of BGC Chair.

Grainne Hurst is widely recognized in the betting and gaming industry for her expertise and leadership. As Group Corporate Affairs Director at Entain, she led key initiatives, including a global safer gambling strategy and the company’s rebranding from GVC to Entain. She also spearheaded the Global Gaming Women initiative to promote diversity in the industry. Hurst’s deep knowledge of both land-based and online sectors positions her as an ideal leader for the BGC at a critical time.

A Focus on Stability, Growth, and Diversity

In her first statement as CEO, Hurst emphasized her commitment to advancing the proposals outlined in the government’s White Paper. This document is central to modernizing the UK’s gambling sector while ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Delighted to get started as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, the industry champion for so many iconic brands, Hurst announced:

“There is a huge amount of work ahead of us, not least delivering and implementing the outstanding proposals outlined in last year’s White Paper, many of which our called for.”

Key initiatives in the White Paper include a statutory levy to address problem gambling, the creation of a Sports Sponsorship Code, and new stake limits for online slots. Hurst also stressed the importance of regulatory certainty, saying that achieving stability and growth in the sector would be her top priorities.

BGC’s Role in the UK Economy

The BGC represents over 90% of the regulated betting and gaming industry in the UK, ing 110,000 jobs and contributing £7.1 billion to the economy. The organization plays a vital role in promoting responsible gambling and working with the government to ensure the industry remains well-regulated.

Implementation of the White Paper is expected to modernize the betting industry while enhancing consumer protection. This includes financial risk checks targeted at those most at risk and an Ombudsman to improve consumer redress.

A New Era for the Betting and Gaming Industry

Michael Dugher, who now serves as the Chair of the BGC, expressed confidence in Hurst’s leadership, welcoming her on behalf of the entire BGC hip:

“She brings years of experience and knowledge in the regulated industry, together with a bold vision and strategy to refresh and reset the organization going forward.”

Dugher highlighted that Hurst’s leadership would be critical in navigating the changing landscape of the industry, particularly regarding regulatory reforms and enhancing safer gambling practices. Hurst is also committed to increasing diversity within the industry, a cause she has championed throughout her career.

BGC’s Future Under New Leadership

Under Hurst’s leadership, the BGC aims to ensure that its diverse hip continues to grow and thrive, benefiting the UK’s economy and consumers. In her closing remarks, Hurst thanked Michael Dugher for his contributions to the BGC and expressed her excitement to collaborate with him in his new role as Chair.

The BGC’s serve millions of customers across the UK, providing entertainment in bookmakers, casinos, and online platforms. The industry remains a significant contributor to the national economy, and Hurst’s focus on stability and responsible gambling will help steer it toward continued success.

Source:

“Betting and Gaming Council welcomes Grainne Hurst as new Chief Executive Officer, committed to delivering the White Paper” bettingandgamingcouncil.com, September 9, 2024.