Marcus Boyle leaves role as Gambling Commission chair

Marcus Boyle’s three-year tenure as chair of the Gambling Commission is coming to an end with the announcement that he is set to step down from his position on 31 January 2025. Boyle joined the commission in September 2021 for a term of five years and has been marked by many significant developments including the launch of the fourth National lottery licence, raising funds of over £50bn for good causes. 

Before his appointment at the UKGC, Boyle was a senior partner at Deloitte UK, serving on the board as well as being global chief strategy officer.

During his time at the UKGC, he also played a key role in implementing recommendations from the Gambling Act Review and White Paper, which aimed to address gambling-related harm and modernise regulations.

In April 2024, the commission published a complete three-year strategy outlining planned advancements through 2027 focusing on transparency and data-driven decision making.

However, with the strategy now in full swing, Boyle leaves the commission in a strong position with a clearly defined pathway of progression. While, the recruitment of a new board was also completed on Boyle’s watch, aiming to create an overall stronger governance framework.

The board of commissioners and colleagues at the Gambling Commission have shared their gratitude for Boyle’s leadership, dedication and contribution over the past three years, wishing him well for the future.

The Minister for Gambling, Baroness Twycross, said: “The past three years have been very significant for the commission, as it takes forward measures set out in the Gambling Act Review and the start of the fourth National Lottery licence.

“I am grateful for Marcus’ hard work and commitment to the Gambling Commission and public service over his tenure and wish him the best for his future endeavours.”

News of Boyle’s departure comes at a time of ongoing scrutiny of the gambling industry, including findings of the commission’s ‘2024 young people and gambling report’. The report revealed that 27% of 11-17-year-olds spent their own money on any gambling activity in the past year, this rose from 26% in the age group in 2023. 

As Boyle steps down, the commission is expected to continue its focus on improving regulation practices and the protection of vulnerable groups. His successor is yet to be named.