Entain Chairman Barry Gibson to step down, Stella David to lead as successor

Entain is undergoing leadership changes as Barry Gibson, the current Chairman of the Board, announced his retirement. Gibson, who has been at the helm since February 2020, has been instrumental in steering the company through a period of transformation and growth, notes the gambling group.

Gibson's retirement is slated for the end of September 2024. The timing of his departure may be expedited depending on the appointment of a permanent CEO, with the search process already underway and "progressing well."

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Gibson stated: "It has been a privilege to lead the Board of Entain for the past four years, and while I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at this dynamic, exciting, and innovative business, I reflected a little while ago that 2024 would be the right time for me to retire."

Gibson also expressed confidence in his successor, Stella David, noting her qualifications and leadership acumen. Stella David, who has been serving as a Non-Executive Director and Senior Independent Director since March 2021, will assume the role of Chair upon Gibson's retirement.

Stella David, current Non-Executive Director and Senior Independent Director of Entain 

She has also been serving as the Interim CEO since December 2023. David expressed her appreciation for Gibson's mentorship and guidance, stating: "Barry has been a wonderful mentor and source of wise counsel to so many people during his time as Chair of Entain, and I would like to personally thank him for his unwavering support."

"The fact that we now have a solid platform and a clear plan for future growth is due in no small part to his efforts. I am entirely focused on my role as interim CEO as we work to accelerate our operational strategy, and look forward to taking over the baton from Barry in due course.”

Pierre Bouchut, Entain’s Senior Independent Director, commented: "The Board has been succession planning and reviewing potential options to replace him, and we are delighted that Stella will be taking over as Chair. Her extensive Board and Chair experience as well as her time as Interim CEO will be hugely beneficial to the Board and the wider Group as she takes on her new role."