Stella David Appointed Entain Chair Following Barry Gibson’s Departure

Stella David has become the new chair of Entain after Barry Gibson left the position.

Barry Gibson will step down as the chair of Entain by September 2024. The company is performing well and is on track to find a new CEO. Stella David, who has been serving as the interim CEO since last year, will take over the position. She is familiar with the company's operations. Under Gibson's leadership since 2019, Entain, previously known as GVC Holdings, has seen its stock prices rise and its business expand. The name change reflects the company's commitment to responsible practices.

Key Points About the Leadership Changes

• Barry Gibson will step down by 2024, may leave earlier.
• Stella David is appointed as the new chair.
• Entain’s financial status is strong under Gibson: EBITDA up more than 50% to £1bn in 2023.
• Successor was found through planned leadership succession.

Looking Back at Gibson's Impact

Gibson faced issues including an investigation into the company's previous business in Turkey that began before he took over. The company stopped working in Turkey in 2017. Under Gibson's leadership, Entain decided to operate only in legal markets.

The company was investigated and made a deal with the authorities. Entain paid £585 million, including a donation to charity and other expenses. Gibson assisted in building Entain's positive image.

Stella David's Track Record

David joined the company's board in March 2021 and stepped in as the temporary CEO after Jette Nygaard-Andersen's departure. He shifted the company's focus to betting and gaming, avoiding side projects like the innovation hub. Believing the business had become too complicated, David pushed for simplicity to speed up operations and boost efficiency. Since these changes, the company has seen improvements.

Previous leaders oversaw expansion and transformation.

Before David took over, the company bought many other firms, especially in Eastern Europe and the Netherlands, which some investors criticized, and one purchase even resulted in a lawsuit. Now that David is in charge, Entain plans to focus on stable growth without pursuing complex acquisitions.

Stock prices are currently rising, which is positive. Entain has a well-prepared strategy thanks to Gibson, and now David is set to implement it.

What's Next for Entain

David is temporarily in charge and will soon take full control. Gibson has enjoyed working at Entain and speaks well of David. David appreciates Gibson's assistance and plans to continue the momentum. Entain is focusing on strengthening its position in betting and gaming, according to her.

Entain is profitable and preparing for further achievements. With David's prior experience at the company, she can manage it effectively. She's focusing on streamlining Entain for fast decision-making and action.

Entain's stock prices are rising, and all the employees are focused on helping the company expand in the gambling industry. They have a clear plan and leaders ready to make difficult improvements.