Paul Burns

Before entering the gaming industry, Paul Burns held senior advisory roles in Ontario’s provincial and municipal governments. He served as Senior Policy Advisor to the Minister of Consumer and Commercial Relations, where he worked on key gaming initiatives, including the rollout of slot machines at racetracks. He was also a Senior Advisor to the Mayor of Toronto, focusing on economic development and infrastructure. These roles gave him direct experience in regulatory design and public-sector decision-making.

Following his work in government, Burns joined RPC Anchor Gaming as Vice President of Corporate Affairs. He later served as Corporate Compliance Officer at RPC Gaming, a Canadian-led operator with interests in Las Vegas. His responsibilities included regulatory compliance, licensing, and corporate governance. This private-sector experience gave him insight into the operational and legal complexities of gambling businesses.

Founding and Development of the Canadian Gaming Association

In 2005, Burns co-founded the Canadian Gaming Association to represent the country’s commercial gambling interests at the national level. He served as Vice President of Public Affairs before being appointed President and CEO in 2018. Under his leadership, the CGA has expanded its influence across multiple sectors, including land-based casinos, online gambling, sports betting, and gaming technology. The association has also become a central voice in discussions with federal and provincial regulators.

Burns led the national campaign to legalize single-event sports betting in Canada. For over a decade, he has advocated for changes to the Criminal Code, arguing that existing restrictions were outdated and harmful to consumers and public finances. After over a decade of lobbying, the reforms were passed in 2021 through Bill C-218. This reform laid the groundwork for Ontario’s decision to launch a regulated iGaming market in 2022. Burns played a key role in both developments.

As head of the CGA, Burns has prioritized data-driven advocacy and institutional development. He oversaw the growth of the Canadian Gaming Summit into the country’s leading industry event. He also commissioned independent studies on the economic impact of gaming in Canada, which are frequently cited in government consultations and media coverage. His approach has emphasized regulatory clarity, responsible gambling standards, and industry transparency.

Recognition and Ongoing Influence

In 2022, Paul Burns became the first Canadian inducted into the SBC Sports Betting Hall of Fame. The recognition reflects his long-term role in shaping gambling policy and industry structure in Canada.

He continues to represent CGA members in negotiations with regulators and legislators and remains an active participant in policy working groups and public forums. His current priorities include regulatory harmonization across provinces, consumer protection, and maintaining the competitiveness of the regulated market.