BGC: Michael Dugher to Take Over as Chair as Brigid Simmonds Steps Down

The Betting and Gaming Council, the standards body for the regulated UK betting and gaming industry, announced that Brigid Simmonds OBE is to step down as Chairman on 20 April 2024. The Council also announced that BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher will take over as Chair from 21 April 2024.

Michael Dugher, Chief Executive of the BGC, said: “I would like to pay tribute to Brigid for all the incredible work she has done at the BGC. She has made a massive contribution during her four and a half years as Chairman, launching the organisation and bringing together the different sectors. She has also led a change programme across the industry that has seen a relentless focus on raising standards on safer gambling. Brigid is a high integrity leader who is rightly held in huge regard, not just in the betting and gaming industry, but across so many other industries and sectors, and across the political divide.

“Together with a new CEO in the Spring, I look forward as Chair to building on that success – continuing and intensifying the work of change on standards, speaking up for the tens of thousands of men and women who work in the industry, and ensuring that the millions of people who enjoy a regular bet can do so enjoyably and safely.”

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Brigid Simmonds OBE, outgoing Chairman, said: “It has been a privilege to play my part in the development of the BGC since its formation in 2019 and it has been an honour to represent the 110,000 people whose jobs rely on the regulated betting and gaming industry.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our members, large and small, to raise standards, create a culture of safer gaming and build public and institutional trust in our world class industry.

“I would like to thank the Executive Committee, colleagues, members, charities and stakeholders, who have supported me and worked very hard to deliver all of the achievements of which the BGC is rightly proud.”