The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the regulatory body responsible for the United Arab Emirates’ emerging gaming sector, has confirmed the appointment of a new CEO. This comes several months after the authority’s original CEO stepped down.
GCGRA Welcomes a New CEO Several Months After Mullally’s Exit
According to the GCGRA’s official announcement, Ciarán Carruthers has been named as the body’s new chief executive officer. In this role, he will leverage his profound experience in the casino sector to support the continued growth and success of the UAE’s burgeoning gaming industry.
As CEO of the GCGRA, Carruthers will “advance the Authority’s mission to establish a world-class, transparent, and responsible regulatory framework,” the regulatory body said.
The GCGRA described the appointee as an industry veteran who has previously worked for the likes of Australia’s Crown Resorts. During his time with that company, Carruthers was instrumental in Crown’s recovery process, helping it to return to full licensing suitability.
Prior to that, Carruthers oversaw large-scale operations at Wynn Macau. He is no stranger to responsible gaming either and has staunchly championed higher industry standards.
Carruthers’ appointment follows the exit of Kevin Mullally, who took off the mantle of CEO last year. Mullally’s decision came due to his desire to return to the United States to spend more time with his family.
Mullally was replaced on an interim basis by chair Jim Murren. Now that a permanent CEO has finally been appointed, Murren will return to his usual responsibilities.
Carruthers Vows to Further Develop the UAE Framework
Murren commented on the new appointment, saying that he trusts Carruthers to continue the GCGRA’s mission to expand UAE gaming.
We are pleased to welcome Ciarán to the GCGRA leadership team. He brings the experience and vision to lead the Authority as we continue to build a world-class regulatory framework for commercial gaming in the UAE.
Jim Murren, chair, GCGRA
Carruthers also commented on his appointment, saying that he is pleased to join the GCGRA team and is looking forward to further developing the UAE’s regulatory framework for commercial gaming.
The UAE is establishing itself as a global benchmark for modern and responsible gaming regulation, and I look forward to working closely with the team, licensees, and government partners to deliver on that ambition.
Ciarán Carruthers, CEO, GCGRA
In other news, a Nepalese player just won an $8.17 million jackpot from the UAE Lottery.