Gambling Commission appoints Rhodes as interim chief executive

Rhodes (pictured) joins the Commission with more than 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors.

Having previously held senior roles at the Department for Work and Pensions and the DVLA, Rhodes’ most recent role was as registrar and chief operating officer at Swansea University.

Rhodes said: “The Gambling Commission is one of the world’s highest profile and most respected regulators so I am delighted to join the team at such an important time.

“Protecting the public and players from gambling harm will continue to be central to our work and I am looking forward to meeting people from across the industry and those with lived experience to understand the issues and opportunities which lay ahead.”

Rhodes succeeds Neil McArthur, who stepped down earlier this year.

McArthur’s tenure included many changes to gambling regulation in the United Kingdom, such as a ban on use of credit cards to gamble and major changes to online slot gameplay, as well as the launch of the government’s Gambling Act review last year.

Gambling Commission chairman Bill Moyes added: “Andrew has a first-class track record of delivery, strong leadership and innovation both in the private sector and in the civil service.

“I have no doubt he will prove to be an exceptional appointment here at the Commission and it comes at a time when the spotlight is on gambling regulation and operators. I am looking forward to working closely with Andrew as I prepare to hand over to a new chair in September.”

During Rhodes’ 18-month spell as chief executive, the regulator will continue to seek McArthur’s long-term replacement.