Allwyn UK has appointed Phil Walker as interim CEO after Andria Vidler stepped down. Vidler’s term comes to an end following the completion of key Fourth National Lottery licence transition milestones.
Since Allwyn was awarded the licence in September 2023, Vidler led upgrades to technology and infrastructure for 43,500 retail partners, as well as major improvements to The National Lottery’s website and app.
The company also added 1 million new active digital users, relaunched New Lotto, introduced Powerball in the UK, and launched new online and scratchcard games.
With the major Fourth Licence transition milestones completed, Vidler and Allwyn UK Chairman Justin King agreed that the timing was right for her to step down.
Walker joins Allwyn UK after six years at William Hill, where he held roles including UK and Ireland Managing Director, Online Managing Director and Chief Commercial Officer. During his time leading William Hill’s UK business, the company delivered growth in market share, revenue and profit across its digital and retail operations.
Allwyn said Walker brings digital, commercial and operational experience as the company focuses on digital transformation and the next phase of growth for The National Lottery.
Walker said he was proud to take over from Vidler and join The National Lottery at an important stage of its growth.
Phil Walker said: “As a long-standing National Lottery player, I know first-hand the difference it makes to communities across the UK and this is a huge part of what attracted me to the role. It will be a real honour to help build on the progress already made.”
His appointment is expected to provide an orderly transition while the company searches for a permanent successor. Vidler will remain in an advisory role through the end of October to support Walker and King during the transition.
Chairman Justin King said: “Since Andria joined us, she has led from the front through an intense period of change, helping to complete the much-needed and long-overdue transformation of The National Lottery.
“With the major transition milestones delivered, now is the right time to look to the future and build on the solid foundations that have been laid to create a strong platform for future growth. We are pleased to welcome Phil as Interim CEO as we continue to modernise and strengthen The National Lottery for players, retailers and Good Causes.”
Andria Vidler, outgoing CEO of Allwyn, said: “It has been a huge privilege to lead Allwyn UK through such an important period for The National Lottery. The last three years have required enormous focus and commitment from colleagues right across the business, and I am proud of what we have delivered together.
“But transforming The National Lottery is a marathon, not a sprint, and with the major transition now complete, and The National Lottery in a stronger position to keep delivering for the nation, this feels like the right moment for me to pass on the baton.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/08/19/125974-allwyn-uk-names-phil-walker-interim-ceo-following-andria-vidler-39s-departure
