Leadership Transition at Betting and Gaming Council as Brigid Simmonds Steps Down

Brigid Simmonds OBE is set to step down as Chairman on April 20, 2024. Following a decision by the BGC’s Executive Committee, Michael Dugher, currently the Chief Executive, will take over as Chair from April 21, 2024.

Celebrating Brigid Simmonds’ Tenure

Under Brigid Simmonds’ leadership, the BGC underwent a strategic transformation, focusing on safer gambling and industry standard-raising. Her tenure, spanning four and a half years, was marked by significant progress in unifying different sectors of the industry and spearheading a change program that prioritized raising standards in safer gambling.

Michael Dugher, in his statement, praised Simmonds’ contributions: “I would like to pay tribute to Brigid for all the incredible work she has done at the BGC. She has made a massive contribution during her four and a half years as Chairman, launching the organisation and bringing together the different sectors. She has also led a change programme across the industry that has seen a relentless focus on raising standards on safer gambling.”

Achievements and Future Plans

The BGC, under Simmonds’ chairmanship, worked closely with government bodies on comprehensive reforms and increased its contributions to tackle gambling-related harm. The implementation of the Whistle to Whistle ban and the introduction of new ID and age verification checks are among the notable initiatives. The BGC also influenced several measures in the Government’s White Paper, including enhanced spending checks and plans for modernizing the land-based casino sector.

Simmonds commented on her tenure: “It has been a privilege to play my part in the development of the BGC since its formation in 2019. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our members, large and small, to raise standards, create a culture of safer gaming and build public and institutional trust in our world-class industry.”

With the upcoming appointment of a new Chief Executive, the BGC is set to continue its efforts in driving up industry standards and supporting the vast number of jobs and economic contributions its members provide.

Our Comment on the Article

The transition in leadership at the BGC marks a pivotal moment for the organization and the broader betting and gaming industry. Brigid Simmonds’ impactful tenure set a high bar in terms of industry standards and safer gambling initiatives.

Michael Dugher’s upcoming role as Chair, coupled with the search for a new Chief Executive, indicates a future of continued growth and adaptation for the BGC. This change reflects the dynamic nature of the industry and the BGC’s commitment to evolving with it, ensuring that it remains a pivotal body in shaping the landscape of regulated betting and gaming in the UK.