Andrew Rhodes could be staying within the gambling industry once he leaves his role as Chief Executive of the UK Gambling Commission, sparking potential conflicts of interests, according to reports.
Sky News has reported that Rhodes is in talks to take on a position at gambling industry advisory firm Hawkbridge when he steps down from the UKGC at the end of next month.
Hawkbridge’s launch was announced in February by Harris Hagan, a specialist UK-based gambling law firm. The firm will be led by John Hagan, Bahar Alaeddini and David Whyte.
When announcing his departure, the commission stated that Rhodes would be taking on a new role, to be announced in due course, bringing an end to his almost five years at the helm of the UK gambling regulator.
However, it was not stated whether he would be remaining within the industry.
A UKGC spokesperson said to Sky News: “Andrew has told us he is going to work within the wider sector and has been open with us about his plans.
“Andrew has stepped back from any duties which might present risks of a conflict of interest. These will be covered by Sarah Gardner, deputy chief executive and other members of the Commission’s executive team.”
The spokesperson added that Rhodes is “bound by confidentiality obligations and post-employment restrictions, including limits on the use of confidential information and on engagement with matters connected to his previous responsibilities”.
“These restrictions are designed to prevent conflicts of interest and protect the integrity of the Commission’s work… [and] apply to all employees.”
The UKGC noted that Deputy Chief Executive Sarah Gardner will step up as Acting Chief Executive to cover Rhodes’ role during the transitional period, as the commission seeks an interim Chief Executive.
Rhodes said when announcing his departure: “It has been a privilege to lead the Gambling Commission through such an important period of change.
“I am proud of the progress we have made to strengthen regulation, improve consumer protections, and ensure gambling is safer and fairer. I leave with confidence in the organisation, its people, and the work still to come.”
