888 names William Hill stalwart as CCO
Phil Walker steps up to top team at London-listed firm following six-month stint as UK and Ireland MD
888 has appointed long-term William Hill head Phil Walker as the company’s new chief commercial officer (CCO).
Walker joins the parent company’s C-suite after six months as Hills’ UK and Ireland MD following a personnel reshuffle in January.
Walker originally joined Hills in January 2019 as online managing director before being named UK managing director in September 2020.
The former Gibraltar Stock Exchange head also had spells with Gala Coral as he cut his teeth in the industry, before moving over to Ladbrokes Coral as chief marketing officer following the pair’s merger.
In his new role as CCO, Walker will be responsible for all non-US commercial operations for the group across both retail and online.
Walker’s ascension to the 888 C-suite follows a series of departures at the operator following its £1.95bn acquisition of William Hill International last year as the firm looks to solidify its senior team.
Earlier this month, chief product officer Roee Peled confirmed his exit after 12 years with the firm.
In January, 888 CEO Itai Pazner stepped down after issues with the firm’s VIP programme in the Middle East emerged.
Subsequently, COO Guy Cohen left in February after 15 years. He was replaced by Elena Chambers.
888 is in the process of finding Pazner’s replacement, with chair Lord Mendelsohn taking temporary charge.