SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Trade body Bacta has confirmed the appointment of a new leadership duo as the UK government prepares sweeping reforms to modernise land-based gambling venues.
Joseph Cullis of Windmill Leisure has been elected President, with Jeremy Godden, Managing Director of Godden Gaming, named Vice President.
Both appointments were uncontested following the closure of nominations on 20 May, and marked a generational shift in representation for the UK’s amusement and gaming machine sector.
Cullis steps up from his previous role as Vice President, taking over from John Bollom, who returned to helm Bacta in 2023. He inherits the presidency at a critical juncture, as the sector faces mounting regulatory and reputational headwinds.
“It’s a great honour to represent Bacta as President,” Cullis said. “We’re entering a pivotal moment for our industry. Delays in regulatory reform, proposed changes to machine standards, and continued media scrutiny of AGCs all signal how vital our advocacy work is.”
Cullis praised outgoing President Bollom for leading Bacta through a period of internal restructuring. “John’s leadership has modernised and streamlined Bacta. He’s been instrumental in shaping our future, and I look forward to drawing on his expertise as we press ahead.”
The incoming team has pledged to fight the corner of the land-based sector as Whitehall advances reforms set out in the government’s Gambling White Paper.
Proposals include the rollout of cashless payments across all land-based venues, expanded gaming machine entitlements, and the removal of outdated table-to-machine ratios, particularly for smaller casinos.
Technical standards for gaming machines will also be updated to include enhanced player protections and safer game design.
Cullis said he and Godden “have no illusions about the scale of the task”, but are determined to “promote and protect members’ businesses on every front”.
Alongside the leadership changes, Bacta will hold elections for its 20-seat Amusement Council and three Past President roles on the National Council. The results are expected to shape Bacta’s strategic direction as it enters a defining period for the UK’s land-based gambling.
