Ladbrokes’ long-serving PR director to depart

Mike Dillon will next month step down from his role as director of public relations at Ladbrokes after 46 years with the company.

Dillon joined Ladbrokes in 1972 as a trainee betting shop manager and worked his way up the company to lead its public relations efforts.

During his time with Ladbrokes, Dillon played a major role in saving the Grand National, the UK’s showpiece horseracing event, when it was under threat in the 1970s.

Dillon, now 66, said he does not intend to retire just yet and will instead seek out a consultancy role in the horseracing sector.

“I’ve had a truly amazing time with Ladbrokes with many great memories and have worked with some fantastic colleagues who made the job such a pleasure for me for so long,” Dillon said, according to the Racing Post.

“I know about a lot of areas of racing, I’ve been involved in racecourse management, in sponsorship and race planning and so I’ve a broad knowledge of all aspects of the business.

“From my point of view the fire still burns; I’m still very committed to a game I’m absolutely passionate about.

“This is not a retirement, I’m going to put myself out there and see what’s about.

“I feel I’ve got a lot to offer, the horseracing business is my true love.”

Kenneth Alexander, chief executive of GVC Holdings, the parent company of Ladbrokes, paid tribute to Dillon’s commitment over the years.

Alexander said: “He has a deserved reputation for being one of the most knowledgeable figures within the industry and has served Ladbrokes brilliantly.

“We wish him every success in the future when he leaves our business at the end of July.”

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