Peter Jackson makes first moves as Paddy Power Betfair CEO

Having taken over the official leadership duties of Paddy Power Betfair (PPB) this week, new Chief Executive Peter Jackson has announced two major executive appointments for the FTSE100 bookmaker.

Issuing a short statement, PPB governance confirmed the promotion of Dan Taylor to the newly created role of Chief Executive of Europe. A Paddy Power executive since 2015, Taylor has previously served the betting group, as Managing Director of UK & Ireland.

Jackson’s second appointment, sees Barni Evans promoted to Chief Executive of Sportsbet, the firm’s Australian division. A Paddy Power marketing veteran, Evans has served as Sportsbet Chief Commercial Officer since 2016.

In its statement, PPB informs that Cormac Barry has stepped down as leader of Sportsbet, to pursue interests outside of the betting sector.

Under the leadership of Peter Jackson, both executives will be key stakeholders in PPB’s continued international expansion projects, key initiatives prioritised by the FTSE group’s corporate governance.

Throughout 2017, former PPB CEO Breon Corcoran detailed the need for the firm to expand its services and operations beyond its expensive and saturated home markets of the UK and Ireland.

Ending his tenure as PPB leader, Corcoran would highlight Sportsbet Australia, as the group’s ‘shining star’ for its international ambitions, becoming the biggest online wagering operator within the Australian market.

Moving forward, Dan Taylor will now lead all PPB European properties, whilst Barni Evans will continue drive PPB’s strong Australian market momentum and strategy. Both executive will report directly to Peter Jackson.