GamCare gets a new chief

GamCare, the UK’s problem gambling support organisation, has appointed former Head of Gambling at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Andy McLellan as its new Chief Executive Officer. McLellan commences his new role on February 1st and replaces Geoffrey Godbold, who has been CEO since February 2006.
In a statement this week, Gamcare informs that McLellan has over 30 years experience in the British Civil Service, working closely with Ministers on policy development and also in front-line operational roles. In the Department for Culture, Media and Sport he was responsible for policy on gambling, the National Lottery, broadcasting and tourism. He has been acting as strategic consultant to GamCare since October 2007.
Anthony Jennens, Chairman of Trustees at GamCare, said: “Over the last few years GamCare has greatly expanded its services to meet the demand from people needing advice, help and support with their gambling problems. 2009 will see considerable changes – for us and the gambling industry.
“The Responsible Gambling Strategy Board will soon be set up, there will be new arrangements for raising and distributing funds from the industry – perhaps through a statutory levy – and the industry itself continues to innovate and expand opportunities for gambling.
“Andy and I have worked together closely for the last 14 months. His analytical mind, his knowledge of the industry and the workings of DCMS, and his considerable skill and ability in negotiating the Governmental and allied minefields have been invaluable to me. As the new Strategy Board comes into play, it is natural that GamCare should wish to see him continue this excellent work.”
Commenting on his appointment, McLellan said: “I am extremely pleased and honoured to be asked to become the new CEO of GamCare. GamCare has built a strong national and international reputation as the leading agency for treating problem gambling, due in particular to the talents and commitment of the team in London and their partners around the country.
“I look forward to building on this and ensuring that GamCare plays its full part in designing and delivering a comprehensive strategy of research, education, public awareness and treatment for problem gamblers and all those affected by them,” he said.
Jennens paid tribute to outgoing CEO Geoffrey Godbold, saying: “Under Anthony and Geoffrey, GamCare has built a strong national and international reputation as the leading agency for treating problem gambling, due in particular to the talents and commitment of the team in London and their partners around the country.”
“I look forward to building on this and ensuring that GamCare plays its full part in designing and delivering a comprehensive strategy of research, education, public awareness and treatment for problem gamblers and all those affected by them.”
Godbold said: “My three years as CEO of GamCare have been extremely enjoyable and satisfying, and during this time our funding requirement has grown from GBP750 000 to GBP3.4 million. I am pleased to be leaving to Andy a professional and committed organisation ready to take on the new challenges.”

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