Stella David
A board member since 2021 and former Chair, Stella David took over as CEO of Entain on 29 April 2025. Her appointment followed two separate interim leadership periods, the first beginning in December 2023 after the departure of Jette Nygaard-Andersen, and the second in February 2025 after Gavin Isaacs stepped down.
Bio
Career in Consumer Brands and Corporate Governance
David graduated in engineering from the University of Cambridge, but soon pivoted from technical fields to brand strategy. She spent over 15 years at Bacardi Ltd., ultimately becoming Global Chief Marketing Officer. Her leadership style—rooted in consumer insight and long-term brand building—carried into her tenure as CEO of William Grant & Sons, where she served from 2009 until early 2016. Under her watch, the business expanded global visibility for brands like Glenfiddich and Hendrick’s while maintaining its family-owned character.
After stepping down, she built a strong portfolio of non-executive and governance roles across sectors. She has held board positions at Homeserve, Domino’s Pizza Group, Nationwide Building Society, and Vue International. As of 2025, she chairs the board of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (appointed in August 2024) and remains involved with Bacardi as a director of Bacardi & Company and Bacardi-Martini BV.
Leadership at Entain
David joined Entain’s board in March 2021 and was appointed Chair in April 2024. When the company faced leadership turnover twice in under a year, she stepped in both times as interim CEO—first in December 2023, and again in February 2025. Her consistent presence provided continuity during a turbulent period for the FTSE 100-listed group.
Her permanent appointment in April 2025 was welcomed by the markets, with Entain shares rising 7.6% on the day of the announcement. Investors responded positively to her internal knowledge, steady leadership, and experience navigating both commercial growth and regulatory environments.
Since taking over, David has focused on simplifying the operating model, tightening cost control, and reaffirming Entain’s focus on regulated markets. The company has restructured its compliance function and taken steps to refocus on core assets and high-growth territories.
Known for her measured and discreet leadership style, David avoids the spotlight but is regarded internally for clear communication and decisive execution. In her first full quarter at the helm, Entain reported an 11% year-on-year increase in net gaming revenue, including its share of BetMGM. The company also reiterated its U.S. ambitions and outlined plans to streamline its international presence.