UK Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes to Step Down
Leadership Change at the UK Gambling Commission
The United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) has announced that Andrew Rhodes, who has served as its Chief Executive Officer for nearly five years, will be stepping down from his position. Rhodes is preparing to take on a new role, though details about this next chapter have not yet been revealed.
Andrew Rhodes to Leave Office in April 2026
According to an official statement from the UKGC, Rhodes will officially leave his role on April 30, 2026. The organization expressed gratitude for his significant leadership and valued contributions during a period marked by substantial regulatory transformation.
During his tenure, Rhodes played a crucial role in advancing the UK’s gambling regulatory framework. He was instrumental in implementing key aspects of the Gambling Act Review, emphasizing stronger consumer protections such as affordability assessments, more stringent rules on harmful gambling products, and measures to limit the intensity of online gambling offerings.
Major Initiatives Led by Rhodes
Rhodes also oversaw the launch of the Gambling Survey for Great Britain, one of the largest and most comprehensive studies on gambling behavior worldwide. Additionally, under his leadership, the UKGC facilitated a significant milestone by awarding the Fourth National Lottery license to Allwyn, reflecting an important evolution in the British gaming landscape.
Appreciation and Legacy
Though Rhodes has not disclosed details about his forthcoming role, he expressed pride in the advances made during his time with the UKGC and confidence in the organization’s continued mission. He highlighted improvements in regulation, consumer safety, and fairness throughout his tenure.
Charles Counsell, the UKGC’s interim chair, praised Rhodes for his strong leadership and the lasting impact he leaves behind. Counsell noted that Rhodes guided the commission through a complex reform era while keeping consumer protection central to its work.
Interim Leadership and Future Outlook
In the interim period, Sarah Gardner, the deputy CEO, will take over as acting chief executive while the search for a new permanent CEO is underway. The UKGC emphasized that this leadership transition is expected to have no negative impact on the commission’s ability to fulfill its strategic goals.
