Prize Competition Council Appoints Tom Banks As Executive Director

The Prize Competition Council (PCC) has appointed Tom Banks as its first Executive Director following a period of membership growth for the recently formed trade association.

Banks joins the PCC after its membership increased from eight founding members to 65 since launching earlier this year.

The council provides a collective voice for the prize competition sector and supports members in operating under the DCMS Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators. It also represents the sector in discussions with government, regulators, the media and other industry stakeholders.

In his new role, Banks will support members in meeting the requirements of the DCMS Code, promote best practice and oversee the council’s continued membership growth.

Banks Brings Regulatory And Public Affairs Experience

Banks has more than 13 years of experience across public affairs, corporate communications and reputation management, including work relating to elections and political parties.

He spent four years advising Kindred as a consultant at Public First before moving in-house for a further four years, most recently serving as Head of External Relations at FDJ UNITED.

His experience includes government engagement and regulatory change across the UK and Europe, as well as work relating to consumer protection, social responsibility and public-facing campaigns.

George McGregor, Independent Chair of the Prize Competition Council, said:

“The Prize Competition Council now represents 65 members, and supporting them with the requirements of the DCMS Code is our immediate priority. Tom brings experience of explaining complex regulatory issues to government, regulators and the media across the UK and Europe.

“He understands the scrutiny facing businesses that serve the public and the need to support what they say with evidence. That experience will help PCC represent our members and explain how responsible prize competition operators work.

“I’m very pleased to welcome him as Executive Director.”

Banks To Focus On Members And Industry Standards

Banks said his initial priorities would include supporting existing members and representing the prize competition sector in discussions with government, regulators and the media.

He said:

“Millions of people across the UK enter prize draws and competitions each year. The Prize Competition Council has an important role in explaining how the market works, championing responsible operators and making sure the sector’s voice is heard when decisions affecting it are made.

“My first priority will be listening to members and supporting their work under the DCMS Code. I also want us to make a confident case for the sector by showing the standards responsible operators uphold, explaining how prize competitions work and representing the people who choose to take part.

“That means engaging early and constructively with government, regulators and the media while continuing to raise standards across the market. I’m looking forward to working with George, the board and our members.”