The Secretary of State has taken a significant step in enhancing the oversight of the UK gambling industry by appointing seven new Commissioners to the Gambling Commission. This move comes in the wake of the UK government’s proactive approach to address problem gambling through the proposal of a levy on online gambling companies, with the aim of directing funds toward research, prevention, and the treatment of gambling addiction. These newly appointed Commissioners bring diverse expertise to the regulatory body, each possessing a unique skill set and background that will contribute to the Commission’s mission.
New Commissioners and Their Backgrounds:
The seven newly appointed Commissioners include Charles Counsell, Helen Dodds, Sheree Howard, Claudia Mortimore, Lloydette Bai-Marrow, Helen Phillips, and David Rossington.
They have been appointed for varying terms, with Charles Counsell, Helen Dodds, Sheree Howard, and Claudia Mortimore serving five-year terms, while Lloydette Bai-Marrow, Helen Phillips, and David Rossington have four-year terms.
Lloydette Bai-Marrow:
Bai-Marrow brings expertise in anti-corruption and serves as an economic crime lawyer, which will be invaluable in regulating the gambling industry.
Charles Counsell OBE:
Charles Counsell, who previously held the position of CEO of the Pensions Regulator, has extensive experience in financial regulation and consumer protection.
Helen Dodds OStJ:
Helen Dodds, an international lawyer and consultant, has held key roles such as the Global Head of Legal, Dispute Resolution at Standard Chartered Bank, which brings a wealth of legal and financial experience to the Commission.
Sheree Howard:
With over 25 years of experience in the UK financial services industry, Sheree Howard’s role as the Executive Director of Risk and Compliance Oversight at the Financial Conduct Authority is vital in promoting integrity and risk management within the gambling sector.
Claudia Mortimore:
Claudia Mortimore’s background as a barrister and her work prosecuting various offenses, including those related to tax, money laundering, and fraudulent trading, will be pivotal in upholding regulatory standards.
Helen Phillips:
Dr. Helen Phillips, an experienced executive and non-executive, will contribute a comprehensive understanding of the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to the Commission’s endeavors.
David Rossington CB:
David Rossington’s extensive experience working in various government departments, including as Finance Director and Acting Director General at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), brings valuable insights into governance and finance.
The appointment of these seven new Commissioners to the Gambling Commission represents a strategic move by the UK government to strengthen regulatory oversight of the gambling industry. Each Commissioner’s unique expertise and background contribute to a well-rounded team capable of addressing the complex challenges posed by the gambling sector. The government’s proposal of a levy on online gambling companies further underlines its commitment to promoting responsible gambling and ensuring the protection of consumers. This collective effort is a positive step toward a more regulated and accountable gambling industry in the UK.