The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has opened applications for a new permanent Chair after the position has been held on an interim basis for more than a year.
Charles Counsell OBE assumed the interim role in February 2025, replacing former Chair Marcus Boyle. During his tenure, Counsell has overseen the continued rollout of reforms stemming from the Gambling Act White Paper Review, working with government officials, industry representatives, and other stakeholders.
Among the most recent regulatory developments, the Commission confirmed that all non-compliant gaming machines will be removed from land-based venues from July this year.
Counsell was also involved in the regulator’s engagement with the sector during last year’s Treasury consultation on gambling taxation, a process that generated significant debate across the industry.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves later announced a substantial increase in Remote Gaming Duty, rising from 21% to 40%, alongside the abolition of bingo duty and the decision not to raise taxes on horse racing.
The UKGC’s recruitment advertisement highlights the high-pressure nature of the Chair position and the leadership qualities expected of candidates. “The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate that they can command the confidence of the companies and organisations within the gambling industry,” the listing stated.
It added that the Chair must be capable of maintaining close working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders while remaining independent and focused on raising standards across the sector.
The successful applicant will also be required to work closely with the operator of the UK National Lottery, currently Allwyn, which holds a 10-year licence running until 2034.
Applications for the role close on 14 March. The post is listed as requiring a commitment of two days per week, although the Commission notes that the scale of ongoing reforms across the UK gambling sector is likely to make the workload substantial.
Key challenges for the incoming chair include managing the impact of recent tax changes, addressing concerns over investment uncertainty, supporting a struggling horse racing industry, overseeing advertising reforms in football, tackling illegal gambling activity, and ensuring protections for vulnerable players remain effective.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/02/06/117479-uk-gambling-commission-opens-search-for-new-chair
