Grainne Hirst, formerly the Corporate Affairs Director at Entain Group, is set to assume the role of CEO at the British Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). The appointment comes as part of a strategic restructuring of senior management within the organization, aimed at bolstering its leadership team.
Hirst brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having held various leadership roles in both the land-based casino and online gaming sectors. Her tenure at Entain spanned nearly a decade, during which she played a pivotal role in managing the company's operations and government relations. Notably, Hirst was instrumental in spearheading Entain's rebranding initiative, transitioning the company from GVC to its current identity.
In her new capacity as CEO of BGC, Hirst is poised to lead the organization through a period of dynamic growth and transformation within the UK gambling industry. Her track record of strategic leadership and advocacy positions her as a key driver of the council's mission to promote responsible gambling practices and drive positive regulatory outcomes.
Meanwhile, Michael Dagher, the current CEO of BGC, will transition to the role of chairman, succeeding Bridget Simmonds. Simmonds, who has served as chair since the inception of the board in 2019, leaves behind a legacy of stewardship and oversight over the UK gambling landscape.
With Grainne Hirst at the helm and Michael Dagher assuming the role of chairman, BGC is well-positioned to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and advocate for the interests of its members while upholding the highest standards of integrity and responsible gaming.