The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) has appointed a new Chief Executive, with public health specialist Dr Jane Rigbye stepping into the role. 

YGAM has underscored that Rigbye’s appointment marks the start of ‘an exciting chapter’ for the responsible gambling charity, as it continues to develop its educational strategy over the coming years. 

Prior to joining YGAM, Rigbye – a chartered psychologist and fellow of the Royal Society of Public Health – worked for nine years in senior leadership positions at GambleAware, having most recently served as Prevention Director, out of a total of fifteen years in the field of public health in relation to gaming and gambling. 

“I’m incredibly proud to be joining YGAM during an exciting period of growth,” Dr Rigbye remarked. “For many years, I have observed and admired the important work the organisation delivers, so I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the team into the next strategic cycle. 

“Prevention of gambling and gaming harm is more important than ever. I look forward to working collaboratively to deliver the impact that can be achieved through education.”

In addition to her experience at GambleAware, Rigbye has worked in the NHS and contributed to research in areas of public health in gaming and gambling, such as educational resources and effective interventions. 

Her voluntary roles have included oversight of communications and fundraising at a children’s charity as a trustee, whilst she currently coordinates responsibility and safeguarding as a school governor.

Rigbye joins YGAM after an extensive recruitment process initiated in October 2021, when then CEO Lee Willows – who also founded the organisation – vacated his position after seven years. Willows now serves on the Board of Directors of gambling harm prevention group Better Change as a Non-Executive Director.

The new Chief Executive will assume her role on 17 January, whilst the charity has also confirmed that Helen Martin will continue in the position of Chief Operating Officer of the company, having taken on ‘additional responsibilities’ during the recruitment process. 

Mike Wojcik, Chair of YGAM, said “I am delighted to announce this exciting appointment and welcome Dr Jane Rigbye to the charity. Her knowledge of the fields of harm prevention is exceptional and her achievements in this sector are outstanding. 

“Dr Rigbye has the leadership qualities and vision to take YGAM to the next level. The Board of Trustees are looking forward to seeing what our new Chief Executive and our talented team can accomplish together in our mission to educate and safeguard future generations.”