UK Betting and Gaming Council Appoints Kane Purdy as New Chair

(AsiaGameHub) –   Kane Purdy has taken over as the non-executive chair of the British gambling industry’s trade body, succeeding Michael Dugher.

UK.- The board of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the UK’s gambling trade body, has appointed Kane Purdy as its new non-executive chair, effective immediately. He succeeds Michael Dugher, who departed the role in January after serving for just under two years.

Purdy currently serves as Managing Director at Gamesys Operations Limited, which is now part of Bally’s Intralot. He brings 20 years of experience within the betting and gaming sector. The BGC emphasized his contributions to fostering industry collaboration, notably his role as Chair of GamProtect, an initiative focused on a single customer view aimed at improving player protection and elevating industry standards.

The BGC represents more than 90 per cent of the British gambling industry, encompassing betting shops, online betting and gaming operations, bingo halls, and casinos. The position of chair will now be filled on a rotational basis by BGC members, with each term lasting for 12 months.

Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of the Betting and Gaming Council, stated: “Kane brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and talent to this role, accumulated over two decades in the industry.

“He is a highly respected leader with a profound understanding of both the opportunities and the responsibilities inherent in operating within a regulated environment. He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration, playing a key role in advancing initiatives that enhance standards and protections across the sector.

“I eagerly anticipate working closely with him as we continue to advocate for our members, elevate standards, and support a well-regulated industry that benefits customers, the economy, and communities nationwide.”

Dugher, a former Labour MP for Barnsley East, held leadership positions at the BGC for six years and chaired the organization during the significant and protracted review of the 2005 Gambling Act. However, the sector continues to face challenges, and Purdy assumes the chairmanship at a time when the relationship between the gambling industry and other stakeholders remains strained.

The BGC has voiced criticism regarding the recent increase in remote gaming tax, which took effect this month, and is also opposing the potential introduction of mandatory financial risk assessments for customers.

Purdy commented: “I am honored and delighted to accept the position of Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council. “With 20 years in the industry, I recognize the importance of collective effort in addressing challenges, improving standards, and ensuring the continued success of the regulated sector.

“I look forward to collaborating with Grainne and the team, as well as with members from across the industry, to build upon the substantial progress already achieved and to help shape the future direction of the BGC.”