The UK Gambling Commission is heading into another stretch of reform work with a change at the top. Andrew Rhodes will leave his role as chief executive on April 30, 2026, after deciding to take up a new job outside the regulator.
The commission said deputy CEO Sarah Gardner will act as chief executive during the transition while it starts the process of hiring an interim replacement.
A fast transition at a busy regulator
The announcement was made on February 9, with interim chair Charles Counsell crediting Rhodes with leading the commission through a heavy period of change. Rhodes said he is proud of progress to strengthen regulation and improve consumer protections.
Even with an acting CEO in place, the timing matters. The UKGC is still handling licensing, compliance work, and enforcement action every week, while also delivering the government’s wider reform agenda.
Reforms are still landing in the market
In its statement, the commission said Rhodes helped drive implementation of the Gambling Act Review, with a focus on consumer safeguards. It pointed to financial vulnerability checks, changes aimed at reducing the intensity of some online games, and limits on marketing offers it sees as harmful.
The UKGC also highlighted major projects delivered during his tenure, including the Gambling Survey for Great Britain and the Fourth National Lottery licence, both of which shape how the market is measured and regulated.
Pressure points will not pause for a recruitment process
The leadership change lands as operators adjust to a tougher environment. Compliance costs are rising, and the rules around onboarding, product design, and promotions are tightening.
Rhodes has also been vocal about the illegal market risk, warning that stricter rules can backfire if customers drift to unlicensed sites. The next CEO will be judged quickly on whether the regulator can keep lifting standards while keeping regulated gambling competitive against offshore alternatives.
