Ruth Evans Appointed Permanent Chair Of UK Gambling Commission
Evans will begin a five-year term on 30 September, replacing Charles Counsell following more than a year under interim leadership.
Ruth Evans has been appointed as the new permanent Chair of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), bringing an extended period of uncertainty over the regulator's leadership to an end.
Evans will take up the position on 30 September for a five-year term, replacing Charles Counsell, who has served as interim Chair since Marcus Boyle stepped down in January 2025.
Evans Brings Regulatory And Consumer Protection Experience
Evans has held a number of senior positions spanning regulation, consumer protection and financial crime. Her previous roles include Chair of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority and Bar Standards Board, as well as nine years as a lay member of the General Medical Council.
She has also served as a non-executive director of the Serious Fraud Office and founded Stop Scams UK. Her work on financial crime has included chairing a steering group focused on securing compensation for victims of authorised push payment scams.
Commenting on her appointment, Evans said:
“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 also highlighted the importance of cooperation between regulators, the gambling industry and technology companies in delivering improved outcomes for consumers.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy welcomed the appointment and said Evans would take charge at an important time for the sector, with a need to support a sustainable gambling industry while maintaining protections against gambling-related harm.
Appointment Comes Amid UKGC Leadership Changes
Evans arrives following a period of significant change within the Gambling Commission's senior leadership. Former Chief Executive Andrew Rhodes left the regulator in April, while Executive Director of Policy and Research Tim Miller departed in June.
Sarah Gardner is currently serving as Acting Chief Executive, meaning the appointment of a permanent CEO remains another major leadership decision facing the regulator. DCMS civil servant Sarah Fox has also been seconded to the UKGC to assume Miller's responsibilities.
The regulator is simultaneously overseeing significant changes to Britain's gambling framework, with proposals including the removal of the long-standing “aim to permit” principle from licensing policy having prompted debate over the future direction of regulation.
Counsell To Leave Role After Interim Tenure
Counsell will step down after more than a year overseeing the Commission on an interim basis. Nandy thanked him for his contribution, describing him as a “passionate and diligent chair”.
Evans' appointment provides the UKGC with permanent leadership at board level as it continues implementing regulatory reforms and addressing issues including consumer protection, financial crime and gambling-related harm.
