Andrew Rhodes

Education and Early Career

Born in South Wales in 1977, Andrew Rhodes grew up in Neath and attended local schools before continuing his studies at Swansea University. He earned a degree in history and later completed a postgraduate research qualification. His academic background, rooted in analysis and critical thinking, would become a solid foundation for his future roles in both government and university leadership.

Rhodes began his career in the private sector, working in customer service and consultancy. After a brief period in management consulting, he transitioned into local government and then to national public service. One of his early contributions came during his time at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, where he played a key role in expanding digital services and introducing partnerships that improved operational outcomes without public cost.

Senior Roles Across Government

As he advanced through the UK civil service, Rhodes took on progressively larger leadership responsibilities. At the Food Standards Agency, he directed operational oversight and later stepped in as Chief Operating Officer. His tenure included managing national responses to food supply issues and contamination incidents, reinforcing the importance of rapid, coordinated action in regulatory environments.

He then moved to the Department for Work and Pensions, where he led one of the largest operational teams in government. In this position, he oversaw the delivery of benefits and employment services to millions of citizens. Managing an organization of tens of thousands, Rhodes was responsible for distributing a significant portion of public funds.

In 2018, Rhodes returned to Swansea University, this time in an executive role. As Registrar and Chief Operating Officer, he was responsible for university-wide operations, governance structures, and institutional strategy. He worked closely with academic and administrative leaders, guiding the university through organizational development and public accountability processes.

Achievements at the UK Gambling Commission

Rhodes joined the UK Gambling Commission in 2021 as Interim CEO and was confirmed in the permanent role the following year. His appointment came at a critical time, as the Commission prepared to implement sweeping reforms to gambling regulation.

One of his most notable contributions has been the delivery of comprehensive statutory advice to government as part of the Gambling Act review. This advice played a key role in shaping the proposed changes set out in the government’s white paper, covering areas such as affordability checks, online protections, marketing rules, and the future role of the Commission itself.

Rhodes also oversaw a major reform of the National Lottery licensing process—arguably the most complex procurement in the Commission’s history. Under his leadership, the Fourth National Lottery Licence competition was completed successfully, resulting in the transition from Camelot to Allwyn as the new operator.

Beyond legislative reviews and licensing, Rhodes has led efforts to enhance enforcement, particularly in tackling non-compliance among operators and addressing illegal online gambling. He has prioritized evidence-led regulation and increased engagement with stakeholders across government, industry, and civil society.

His tenure has also seen the Gambling Commission adopt a more proactive stance in communicating expectations to licensees, clarifying standards, and implementing measures aimed at reducing gambling-related harm.

Outside of government, Rhodes is actively involved in charitable and community work. He chairs the foundation linked to Swansea City Football Club, supporting youth development and outreach programs in under-resourced areas.