The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the leading industry body representing the UK’s regulated betting and gaming sector, has officially welcomed Grainne Hurst as its new CEO. Hurst’s appointment, which was first announced in April, follows the leadership transition of former CEO Michael Dugher to the role of BGC Chair. Dugher takes over from Brigid Simmonds, who stepped down after serving in the position with distinction.
Grainne Hurst’s extensive experience within the betting and gaming industry positions her well to take on the challenges and opportunities in this role. Her decade-long tenure at Entain, where she held the position of Group Corporate Affairs Director, is particularly notable. During her time at Entain, Hurst led government and public sector relations and played a pivotal role in the rebranding of GVC Holdings to Entain. Furthermore, she spearheaded the company’s groundbreaking safer gambling initiative, Changing for the Bettor, and served on the board of the Entain Foundation.
Beyond her corporate experience, Hurst has served as a special advisor to the UK Government and held various senior positions across both land-based and online betting sectors. Notably, she also contributed to the development of Global Gaming Women’s international arm, an organization focused on empowering women in the gaming industry. This background provides Hurst with a broad and unique perspective on the complexities of the industry and the policy challenges it faces.
A New Era for the BGC
Grainne Hurst’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Betting and Gaming Council, which has become a central player in driving reform, raising standards, and promoting safer gambling within the UK’s betting and gaming sector. Her extensive experience at Entain and in public sector engagement is expected to be a significant asset as the BGC continues to advocate for responsible betting practices, particularly in light of ongoing regulatory changes.
In a statement marking her first day as CEO, Hurst expressed her enthusiasm for the role and acknowledged the significant amount of work that lies ahead, particularly regarding the implementation of key proposals outlined in the UK Government’s White Paper on gambling reform. The White Paper, published last year, has outlined a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at modernizing the UK’s gambling laws, many of which have been supported by BGC members.
“I’m absolutely delighted to get started as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, the industry champion for so many iconic brands, at home in the UK and around the world. 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 members called for,” said Hurst.
She also took the opportunity to thank Michael Dugher for his significant contributions during his tenure as CEO. “My huge thanks go to Michael Dugher for his amazing work so far getting the BGC to where it is today. I’m really looking forward to working alongside Michael in his new role as BGC Chair.”
Michael Dugher’s Transition to Chair
Michael Dugher, who served as CEO of the BGC for several years, played a central role in establishing the BGC as the representative body for the betting and gaming industry. His leadership was instrumental in driving the council’s safer gambling initiatives and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, regulators, and the public.
Now transitioning into his new role as Chair, Dugher expressed confidence in Hurst’s ability to guide the BGC forward. “On behalf of the entire BGC membership, I’d like to warmly welcome Grainne as she officially starts as CEO. She brings years of experience and knowledge in the regulated industry, together with a bold vision and strategy to refresh and reset the organisation going forward.”
Dugher also underscored the importance of continuity in leadership as the BGC continues to advocate for a safer, more regulated industry that benefits both consumers and operators. “I look forward to working with Grainne in my new role as Chair, and the rest of the outstanding BGC team, as we continue to represent thousands of workers and millions of customers, as well as delivering on our mission to raise standards in safer gambling,” he added.
The White Paper and Industry Reform: Key Challenges Ahead
One of the key tasks facing Grainne Hurst and the BGC is the implementation of the UK Government’s White Paper on gambling reform, which sets out a series of measures aimed at strengthening regulations in the betting and gaming sector. Published last year, the White Paper proposes several significant changes, including the introduction of affordability checks for bettors, new advertising restrictions, and increased protections for vulnerable individuals.
The White Paper is the culmination of a long review process that has involved consultations with industry stakeholders, including the BGC, to ensure that new regulations reflect the changing landscape of gambling in the UK. Many of the proposals outlined in the paper have been supported by BGC members, who have called for a balanced approach to regulation that protects consumers without stifling innovation or damaging the economic contributions of the sector.
Hurst’s leadership will be critical in navigating the implementation of these reforms. As the industry’s chief advocate, the BGC will play a central role in ensuring that the proposals are implemented effectively while minimizing any potential disruptions to the sector. This includes working closely with government bodies, regulators, and operators to ensure that the new measures are practical, proportionate, and focused on protecting the most vulnerable.
In her statement, Hurst emphasized the importance of collaboration and constructive dialogue between the industry and policymakers: “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 members called for.”
Safer Gambling Initiatives: Continuing the Momentum
One of the central pillars of Grainne Hurst’s vision for the BGC is the continued promotion of safer gambling initiatives. During her time at Entain, Hurst was instrumental in developing the company’s Changing for the Bettor strategy, which focuses on creating a safer gambling environment through the use of technology, enhanced player protections, and proactive engagement with regulators.
The Changing for the Bettor strategy included several key elements, such as the introduction of innovative tools to help identify and protect problem gamblers, investment in research into the causes and impacts of gambling-related harm, and the promotion of responsible advertising practices. This approach, which balances the need for consumer protection with the importance of allowing individuals to enjoy betting and gaming responsibly, is likely to inform Hurst’s approach as CEO of the BGC.
The BGC has already made significant strides in promoting safer gambling. Under Michael Dugher’s leadership, the council introduced a range of initiatives designed to raise standards across the industry. This includes the Safer Gambling Commitments, a set of measures aimed at reducing gambling-related harm through improved safeguards, staff training, and enhanced customer protection.
Hurst is expected to continue this momentum, working closely with BGC members to ensure that the industry remains at the forefront of responsible gambling practices. This will involve not only implementing the proposals in the White Paper but also exploring new opportunities to leverage technology and data to further enhance player protections.
Supporting the Industry: Economic Contributions and Social Responsibility
The betting and gaming industry is a significant contributor to the UK economy, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in tax revenues each year. As CEO of the BGC, Grainne Hurst will be tasked with ensuring that the industry continues to thrive while meeting the highest standards of social responsibility.
In recent years, the industry has faced growing scrutiny from regulators and policymakers, with concerns about the impact of problem gambling and the role of operators in promoting responsible betting. The BGC, under Hurst’s leadership, will continue to work closely with stakeholders to address these concerns while highlighting the positive contributions of the industry.
In addition to advocating for responsible gambling practices, the BGC will also focus on promoting the economic benefits of the sector. This includes highlighting the industry’s role in supporting jobs, investing in local communities, and contributing to the UK’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
Hurst’s extensive experience in corporate affairs and government relations will be particularly valuable in this regard. During her time at Entain, she was instrumental in shaping the company’s engagement with policymakers and public sector stakeholders. Her ability to build strong relationships and navigate complex regulatory environments will be crucial as the BGC continues to advocate for a balanced and sustainable approach to regulation.
Grainne Hurst’s appointment as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council marks the beginning of a new chapter for the organization. With her extensive experience in the industry and a proven track record of driving responsible gambling initiatives, Hurst is well-positioned to lead the BGC through the challenges and opportunities ahead.
As the industry faces increased scrutiny and regulatory change, Hurst’s leadership will be critical in ensuring that the BGC continues to advocate for responsible betting practices, support economic growth, and protect consumers. Her focus on implementing the proposals outlined in the White Paper, promoting safer gambling initiatives, and maintaining strong relationships with government and regulators will be central to the organization’s success in the coming years.
With Michael Dugher transitioning to his new role as Chair, the BGC benefits from continuity in leadership, ensuring that the organization remains focused on its mission of raising standards and promoting a sustainable and socially responsible betting and gaming sector.