The United Kingdom government has appointed Ruth Evans as the next Chair of the Gambling Commission, bringing an end to a prolonged period without a permanent leader in the role. The appointment was confirmed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), with Evans set to begin her five-year term on 30 September.
Her arrival concludes a search that followed the departure of former Chair Marcus Boyle in January 2025. Since then, Charles Counsell has overseen the regulator in an interim capacity. The Commission acknowledged Counsell’s contribution, thanking him for providing continuity during a significant period for the organization.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy announced the appointment, stating: “I am pleased to announce Ruth Evans as the incoming chair of the Gambling Commission. She becomes Chair at this incredibly important time, supporting a sustainable, thriving industry with the essential protections needed to prevent harm.”
Leadership Change Comes During Period of Transition
Evans becomes the first permanent Chair appointed since Boyle’s departure and takes office while the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) continues to undergo wider leadership changes.
The regulator has also seen movement in senior executive positions. Chief Executive Andrew Rhodes left his post earlier this year, while Executive Director Tim Miller announced his departure in June. Sarah Gardner is currently serving as acting CEO while the search for a permanent replacement continues.
Changes have also taken place within government. Following the formation of Andy Burnham’s Labour administration, Vicky Foxcroft MP replaced Baroness Twycross as gambling minister. In addition, DCMS official Sarah Fox was seconded to the Gambling Commission to assume responsibilities previously held by Miller.
Industry observers had expressed concerns that the absence of permanent appointments at both chair and chief executive level risked creating a leadership gap at the regulator. Evans’ selection addresses one of the key vacancies, though recruitment efforts for a permanent CEO remain ongoing.
Under the Gambling Act 2005, the Secretary of State is responsible for appointing the Commission’s Chair, supported by an advisory assessment panel. The role carries an annual remuneration of £85,000 and requires a commitment of two days each week.
Consumer Protection Background Shapes Appointment
Although Evans has not previously worked directly within the gambling sector, she brings extensive experience from regulatory, oversight and consumer protection organizations.
She is widely known as the founder and chair of Stop Scams UK and has held several senior positions across public bodies. Her previous roles include chairing the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), leading an advisory group at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), serving as chair of the Bar Standards Board and acting as a non-executive director at the Serious Fraud Office.
Evans also spent nine years as a lay member of the General Medical Council, where she chaired its Standards and Ethics Committee. Her work addressing financial crime included leading efforts that helped establish reimbursement arrangements for victims of authorized push payment bank transfer scams.
A government statement highlighted her extensive background, saying: “With a career spanning over four decades, she has held high-profile leadership positions across charities, public regulatory bodies, and financial oversight boards, consistently focusing on public protection, consumer rights, and institutional accountability.”
Evans expressed enthusiasm about taking on the position. “I am delighted to have been appointed Chair of the Gambling Commission at a time when its role in keeping gambling fair, safe and crime-free is more important than ever,” she said.
Regulatory Challenges Await New Chair
Evans takes over during a period of debate about the future direction of gambling regulation in Britain.
The industry is facing increased financial pressure following recent tax changes. Remote Gaming Duty was raised from 21% to 40% earlier this year, while a further increase in General Betting Duty from 15% to 25% is scheduled for next April. At the same time, reports of growing activity on unlicensed gambling websites have added to concerns among operators.
The Commission itself has also faced criticism over several policy areas. Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs), which the regulator has recently outlined plans to introduce, have drawn objections from industry groups, members of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee and political figures including Nigel Farage. Questions have also been raised regarding the level of sector experience among some Commission staff.
Beyond operational matters, broader policy discussions are underway following proposals to revoke the long-standing “aim to permit” principle that has shaped gambling regulation. Some stakeholders have suggested that such a change could ultimately require entirely new legislation.
Evans indicated that cooperation between stakeholders will remain central to her approach.
“Throughout my career in consumer protection, I have seen that the best outcomes are achieved through effective collaboration between regulators, industry and the technology sector. I look forward to working with the Commission to encourage online safety for UK citizens that strengthen consumer protections while supporting a responsible, innovative and sustainable gambling sector. By combining proportionate regulation with partnership and shared responsibility, we can build greater public confidence and create lasting benefits for consumers and the wider economy.”