Andrew Rhodes will step down as CEO of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) in April, as the UK betting sector prepares for new tax measures and continued Gambling Act reform.

His departure comes as the Commission continues implementing the Gambling Act review white paper, including financial risk checks and affordability measures. The timing has raised questions across the industry, particularly with tax changes due to take effect in the same month.

The leadership change was discussed on the latest episode of iGaming Daily, where host Fernando Noodt was joined by SBC News Editor, Ted Orme-Claye, and iGaming Expert, Business Journalist, Christian Lee.

The trio described industry reaction as mixed. Some credited Rhodes for strengthening enforcement standards, while others criticised regulatory pressure and the pace of reform.

Orme-Claye said executive turnover is not unusual but noted that key white paper measures remain incomplete. Lee added that some stakeholders view the exit as coming before major reforms and fiscal changes are fully embedded.

Rhodes’ tenure was marked by increased enforcement activity. The UKGC reported a significant rise in criminal cases and issued record fines, including £17m to Entain and £19.2m to William Hill. The regulator also expanded oversight to B2B suppliers, crypto-related activity and the black market.

Affordability checks were one of the most debated policies during his leadership, with operators warning of customer friction and potential channel shift to unlicensed platforms.

The focus now turns to succession. The next CEO will oversee final stages of white paper implementation and manage the impact of higher tax burdens on operators.