On the latest episode of iGaming Daily, SBC News’ Senior Journalist Viktor Kayed was joined by Ted Menmuir, SBC’s Content Director, to discuss the new leadership era for the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).

The trade and standards body of UK gambling has welcomed Grainee Hurst as its new CEO. She will be succeeding Michael Dugher, who, as part of a leadership restructure, chose to take on the role of Chairman.

The BGC describes Hurst as a “standout leader” for UK gambling. She previously served as Group Corporate Affairs Director for Entain Plc, where she helped launch and develop the Entain Foundation.

Commenting on what Hurst will bring to the role, Ted said: “I think what makes her a standout for the BGC is just a deep experience in corporate governance, public affairs and government policies. Prior to joining the industry, she served as a special advisor to the government and served as a public affairs lead for ASDA. 

“Of significance is that she knows the inner workings of parliament and what MPs are factoring in when they’re legislating new rules or industry directives. I think that the BGC recognises that it needs a fresh face to represent an industry of 110,000 jobs and one that generates £4.2bn in tax.”

Hurst joins the BGC at a time when the UK government and the Gambling Commission begin the technical application of new online checks and safeguards to protect UK customers.

On the agenda for Hurst and the BGC will be the structure of the statutory levy on the research, education and treatment of problem gambling as well as the terms of an ombudsman for consumer redress. 

Ted explained that there will be “steep demands” placed on Hurst’s leadership as these reforms are implemented However, once these changes are made she has the chance to help reshape how the BGC represents UK gambling.

Ted said: “I think Grainee and the BGC’s governance should think about this as a blank canvas of how to represent UK gambling post-review in what should be a less politicised arena as the regulations come through and as operators adapt to the new law.

“I think one of the points of focus will be to regain consumer trust which has been rocked over the last four years, Also, she mentioned in her opening statement that she wants diversity to play a part in the progress of UK gambling and I think that will be a point of focus for the BGC.

“Finally, I’d also like the BGC to coordinate better with leadership. They are the voice of UK gambling, but perhaps they require a more active response from the PLC leaders.”

SBC’s Content Director finished by emphasising the importance of Hurst and the BGC creating a “unified structure” for UK gambling in order to contend with the future challenges the industry will face.