UK: Michael Dugher to take over as chair of BGC as Brigid Simmonds steps down

Gambling industry body Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has announced that BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher will take over as Chair from April 21st, as Brigid Simmonds, is to step down as Chairman on April 20th.

“Following a meeting of the BGC’s Executive Committee, which represents members from across the sector, we are pleased to announce that BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher will take over as Chair from 21 April 2024,” the Council said in a statement. 

Paying tribute to the outgoing Simmonds, Dugher in a statement said: "She has made a massive contribution during her four and a half years as chairman, launching the organization and bringing together the different sectors.

"She has also led a change program across the industry that has seen a relentless focus on raising standards on safer gambling. Brigid is a high-integrity leader who is rightly held in huge regard, not just in the betting and gaming industry, but across so many other industries and sectors, and the political divide.

"Together with a new CEO in the spring, I look forward as chair to building on that success and continuing and intensifying the work of change on standards, speaking up for the tens of thousands of men and women who work in the industry, and ensuring that the millions of people who enjoy a regular bet can do so enjoyably and safely."

Brigid Simmonds

Simmonds was appointed as chair of the BGC in 2019 when it was first formed to bring together members from the online and retail gambling sectors.

She said: "It has been a privilege to play my part in the development of the BGC since its formation in 2019 and it has been an honor to represent the 110,000 people whose jobs rely on the regulated betting and gaming industry.

"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.

“I would like to thank the executive committee, colleagues, members, charities, and stakeholders, who have supported me and worked very hard to deliver all of the achievements of which the BGC is rightly proud."