Kristy Caldwell Appointed as Interim Chair of UK Gambling Commission’s Industry Forum
Kristy Caldwell Takes Over as Interim Chair
The UK Gambling Commission has announced Kristy Caldwell as the interim chair of its Industry Forum. This group plays a vital role in fostering dialogue between the regulator and gambling operators to ensure balanced oversight and industry insight.
Role and Purpose of the Industry Forum
Established three years ago, the Industry Forum exists to offer the UK Gambling Commission a clear understanding of the views held by stakeholders within the regulated gambling sector. Its members are professionals from the UK gaming industry who provide diverse perspectives that help the regulator remain impartial and responsive to the sector’s requirements.
Transition Following Nick Rust’s Departure
Nick Rust, the previous chair of the Industry Forum, concluded his term in November 2025. Since then, the UK Gambling Commission has been searching for a permanent replacement. During this interim period, Kristy Caldwell, a long-standing member of the forum since March 2024, has stepped in to lead the group temporarily.
Kristy Caldwell’s Background and Vision
Caldwell is recognized as an expert in compliance and currently operates Betsmart Consulting, which offers guidance to online and land-based gambling enterprises as well as local authorities. On accepting her new role, she expressed enthusiasm about promoting a respected and thriving gaming sector by fostering open communication between the UK Gambling Commission and its licensees.
She emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue and learning from past mistakes to sustain progress within the industry.
Concerns Raised by the UK Gambling Commission Regarding Social Media
In another development, Tim Miller, the executive director of the UK Gambling Commission, voiced concerns about social media platforms failing to adequately prevent illegal gambling advertisements targeting UK consumers. At the ICE Barcelona conference, Miller criticized major social networks for allowing offshore operators to promote gambling activities, some even advertising their exclusion from the UK’s GamStop program, which could put vulnerable individuals at risk.
While acknowledging that reported illegal ads are sometimes removed, Miller argued that the platforms unfairly shift responsibility to the UK Gambling Commission to identify and flag these ads. He dismissed claims that tech companies lack the means to address the problem and accused them of simultaneously catering to regulated operators and profiting from illicit ones.
