UK Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes to Step Down in April 2026

Rhodes has led the Commission for nearly five years, a period defined by far-reaching regulatory reform and a strengthened focus on consumer protection. During his tenure, the regulator significantly reshaped both its internal operations and its broader approach to supervising the gambling industry.

Driving Reform and Consumer Protection

A central pillar of Rhodes’ leadership was steering the Commission’s work on implementing the Gambling Act Review, with an emphasis on safeguarding players. Under his direction, the regulator introduced financial vulnerability checks, reduced the intensity of online games, and banned marketing offers deemed potentially harmful.

He also oversaw the launch of the Gambling Survey for Great Britain, which has quickly become one of the largest and most comprehensive studies of gambling behaviour worldwide, providing a stronger evidence base for policy and regulatory decisions.

Reflecting on his time at the Commission, Rhodes said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Gambling Commission through such an important period of change. I am proud of the progress we have made to strengthen regulation, improve consumer protections, and ensure gambling is safer and fairer. I leave with confidence in the organisation, its people, and the work still to come.”

Strengthening Regulation and the National Lottery

Beyond consumer safeguards, Rhodes played a key role in the successful implementation of the Fourth National Lottery licence, a milestone widely regarded as critical to the long-term sustainability of one of the UK’s most important public funding mechanisms.

He also led a broader shift toward more robust and outcome-focused regulatory strategies, reinforcing the Commission’s ability to respond to emerging risks in an evolving gambling market.

Charles Counsell, Interim Chair of the Gambling Commission, praised Rhodes’ contribution, stating: “Andrew has provided outstanding leadership for nearly five years and leaves a strong legacy. He has led the Commission through major reform, strengthened our regulatory approach, and ensured consumer protection has remained at the heart of our work. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Andrew for his dedication and wish him every success in the future.”

Transition and Next Steps

The Commission confirmed it will shortly begin the process of recruiting an interim Chief Executive. In the meantime, Deputy Chief Executive Sarah Gardner will step up as Acting Chief Executive, assuming responsibility for the areas of work from which Rhodes will transition away.

The Board reaffirmed its full confidence in the Executive team, underlining that the Commission’s strategic priorities and regulatory momentum will continue uninterrupted during the leadership transition.

As the UK gambling sector continues to adapt to tighter regulation and higher consumer protection standards, Rhodes’ departure closes a period of significant change—one that has reshaped the regulatory landscape and set a clear direction for the years ahead.