UKGC searches for new Industry Forum Chair as Nick Rust steps down

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has confirmed that Nick Rust, Chair of the Industry Forum, will step down at the end of November.

Rust was appointed the inaugural Chair for a two-year tenure back in November 2023. He coordinated the Forum’s activities, leveraging his gambling expertise gained from major roles like the CEO of the British Horseracing Association and the non-executive Director of Redcar Racecourse.

Helen Child, Head of Governance at the Commission, commented: “Nick has been instrumental in the creation of the Forum, helping to develop and embed it into the Commission’s expert groups. 

“I have very much enjoyed working with him as we established the Forum, and I would like to thank Nick for his hard work in getting the group to this point. We wish him well for the future.”

The Industry Forum was founded by the UKGC with the goal of funneling sector insights into topical regulatory discussions, further progressing the relationship between the regulator and operators by providing industry and consumer perspectives on gambling policy.

Under Rust’s leadership, the Forum played an instrumental role in highlighting the impacts of the ongoing implementation of the Gambling Review White Paper.

Andrew Rhodes, UKGC Chief Executive, said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with both Nick and the Forum over the last two years. Nick has been such a valuable sounding board, a constant fount of knowledge and insight and a great support to me personally.”

Rhodes further confirmed that a new Chair will be announced in due course, likely in the next few months as the Forum gears up for a change in leadership in November.

Signing off, Rust added: “I’m pleased with the work the Forum has delivered and believe it has helped the Commission better understand the implications of its existing and planned policies for consumers and industry operators.

“I’d like to thank my fellow Forum members for their work and also the Gambling Commission team who support the Forum. I look forward to seeing how the Industry Forum continues to support the Commission to achieve its regulatory aims.”