Betting and Gaming Council hires UK Music chief as new CEO
UK Music CEO and former shadow culture minister Michael Dugher appointed to lead newly-formed trade body
Former Labour MP and current UK Music CEO Michael Dugher will become the first CEO of the newly formed Betting and Gaming Council in Spring 2020, the BGC has confirmed.
Dugher took over as CEO of UK Music in May 2017 following his decision to step down as Labour MP for Barnsley East after seven years.
During his time in parliament, he held several positions, including Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. In the period prior to this Dugher served as a special advisor to the Labour government for eight years.
Speaking about his new role, Michael Dugher cited the “hugely significant” contribution the betting and gaming industry makes to the leisure and sport industries together with the UK economy.
“I look forward to working with [BGC chair] Brigid Simmonds and the members of the Betting and Gaming Council as we tackle the critical issues facing the sector.
“Like many millions of people, I enjoy having a bet. Creating a safe gambling environment will be my top priority,” Dugher added.
The BGC first launched in November with the announcement of five safer gambling pledges by ten of the UK’s biggest egaming and sports betting operators including bet365, GVC, Sky Betting and Gaming and Rank Group.
It has since announced the creation of a code of conduct for VIP-based gaming and operator inducements.
BGC chairman Brigid Simmonds highlighted Dugher’s wealth of experience in both his time in parliament and as head of UK Music.
“He’ll bring great leadership, energy and experience to the Betting and Gaming Council and help deliver the ongoing change we need to ensure safe and enjoyable products,” Simmonds said.
“We share an ambition to make the UK the safest betting and gaming industry in the world. I very much look forward to working with him,” Simmonds added.