Grainne Hurst has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). Michael Dugher gives way to Hurst, who was previously Group Corporate Affairs Director at Entain. After the BGC recently changed its leadership, Dugher assumed the position of Chairman.
Grainne Hurst has worked in the gaming sector for more than ten years when she joined the BGC. She oversaw important initiatives when she was at Entain, such as the establishment of the Entain Foundation and the adoption of a safer gaming approach that is well-known worldwide. Hurst also made a significant contribution to the Global Gaming Women program, which aimed to increase diversity in the industry.
In her initial statement as CEO, Hurst outlined her determination to advance the initiatives detailed in the government’s White Paper. This White Paper aims to modernize the gambling industry, enhance consumer protection, and implement key reforms.
Hurst stated, “There is a huge amount of work ahead of us, not least delivering and implementing the outstanding proposals outlined in last year’s White Paper.” She emphasized the importance of introducing a statutory levy to combat problem gambling, setting new stake limits for online slots, and establishing a Sports Sponsorship Code.
Hurst’s chairman, Michael Dugher, stated that he fully supports Hurst’s leadership. Dugher said she is in a good position to lead the BGC into a new era because of her broad experience and visionary outlook. He underlined that in order to ensure the industry’s responsible future, stability, growth, and data-driven strategies are essential.
The BGC is a big participant in the regulated betting and gaming market in the UK, accounting for over 90% of the market. It boosts the economy by £7.1 billion ($9.29 billion) and sustains almost 110,000 jobs. Hurst’s leadership will be essential in addressing accountability, enhancing consumer protection, and encouraging safer gambling practices as the industry navigates changing regulatory landscapes.