Gambling Commission chief Andrew Rhodes set for consultancy role after regulator exit

After stepping down from the UK regulator, outgoing Gambling Commission chief executive Andrew Rhodes is reportedly preparing to take up a consultancy role within the gambling sector. Rhodes is expected to join Hawkbridge. This is a newly launched advisory firm created by specialist gambling law practice Harris Hagan.

The move would see Rhodes transition directly from overseeing the UK gambling market to advising businesses operating within it. Industry sources had already suggested such a move was likely. Rumours were circulating for several months before the regulator formally confirmed his planned departure in February.

Rhodes’ New Role

It’s believed that  Rhodes had been in discussions with the firm before the announcement of his exit from the Gambling Commission. He is expected to begin the new role on 1 May.

“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.” – Andrew Rhodes

The regulator confirmed that Rhodes had been transparent about his plans. They stated that he had informed the organisation that he intended to continue working within the broader gambling sector after leaving the Commission.

Regulator outlines conflict-of-interest safeguards

News of the proposed appointment has already prompted debate about potential conflicts of interest. This is due to the Commission’s central role in regulating operators, suppliers and advisers across the UK gambling market.

A Gambling Commission spokesperson said measures had been put in place to manage any potential risks while Rhodes remains in post.

The regulator said Rhodes had stepped back from duties that could present conflicts. These responsibilities are now being handled by deputy chief executive Sarah Gardner and other senior members of the leadership team.

The Commission added that post-employment restrictions will also apply once Rhodes leaves the organisation. These include obligations relating to confidentiality, as well as limitations on how former employees can use sensitive information gained during their time at the regulator.

According to the Commission, these restrictions are standard practice for staff leaving the organisation and are designed to protect the integrity of regulatory work.

Critics warn of reputational risks

Despite those safeguards, the reported move has drawn criticism from some observers and campaigners. They argue it could raise uncomfortable questions about the relationship between regulators and the industry.

Some industry figures have also expressed concern that the optics of the move could create reputational challenges for both the Commission and operators.

Others have noted the timing of Rhodes’ departure comes amid a period of uncertainty for the Gambling Commission’s leadership.

The regulator’s chair, Charles Counsell, is currently serving in an interim capacity. Rhodes’ predecessor, Neil McArthur, stepped down in 2021 following the collapse of Football Index, which had been licensed by the Commission.

Rhodes’ exit also comes as the Commission faces legal challenges from Northern & Shell relating to the award of the Fourth National Lottery licence. This is a dispute that has reportedly placed additional financial pressure on the regulator.