Brigid Simmonds, Chairman of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), has welcomed the appointment of Marcus Boyle as the new Chair of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).

The hiring of Boyle to oversee the UKGC as the government moves forward with its review of the 2005 Gambling Act – with a white paper on the issue due for release – was confirmed by DCMS Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden earlier this week.

Boyle’s experience in managing both public and private sector roles was highlighted by the Commission, which noted that he had led the development and implementation “of a major programme of reform at a public sector body, driving change based on his robust financial management and governance capabilities”.

Overseeing a five-year term at the UKGC with an annual salary of £55,000, Boyle will replace former chair Bill Moyes. 

“I would like to congratulate Marcus Boyle and warmly welcome him to his new role,” Simmonds remarked.

“As part of our continued commitment to ever higher standards on safer gambling, the BGC will continue to work with the Gambling Commission, as well as with the Government on their evidence-led Gambling Review 

“I would also like to thank Marcus’s predecessor Bill Moyes for working with us over the last two years and wish him well for the future.”

Boyle’s previous experience has primarily been in the financial sector, having most recently served as an equity partner for Deloitte where he served as a board member, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

Outside of finance, he has also worked prominently in the arts, currently holding the position of chair of the British American Drama Academy and is a trustee of London’s Serpentine Gallery.

Speaking at the time of Boyle’s confirmation, Oliver Dowden commented: “This is an important moment for the Gambling Commission as we fulfil our manifesto commitment to undertake the first major review of gambling laws in 15 years.

“New leadership will bring a new direction and focus for the Commission and I very much look forward to working with Marcus. His expertise will be invaluable as he steers the Commission into a new era of gambling regulation fit for the digital age.”