UK names former Deloitte exec Marcus Boyle as Gambling Commission Chair

After speculation based on a report Wednesday by the Sunday Times, it was confirmed on Thursday that the UK Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has appointed former Deloitte executive Marcus Boyle as UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)'s chairman for a term of five years, starting September 5. 

With Bill Moyes’ term as chairman coming to an end later this year, Boyle will join the UKGC and bring along his management experience in both public and private sector bodies. 

The UK government is considering the role and resources of the UKGC as part of its Gambling Act Review, a manifesto commitment, which "will consider the need to balance the enjoyment people get from gambling with the right regulatory framework and protections," according to an official statement.

His recent work was related to the development and implementation of a major program of reform at a public sector body, driving change based on his financial management and governance capabilities. 

He has been an equity partner for two global professional services firms, including Deloitte, where he served as Board Member, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Operating Officer. He is also Chair of the British American Drama Academy. 

Dowden, responsible for Boyle's appointment, said: “This is an important moment for the Gambling Commission as we fulfill our manifesto commitment to undertake the first major review of gambling laws in 15 years”.

“New leadership will bring a new direction and focus for the Commission and I very much look forward to working with Marcus. His expertise will be invaluable as he steers the Commission into a new era of gambling regulation fit for the digital age”, he concluded.

Marcus Boyle takes over from Bill Moyes, who was appointed in 2017.