When Michael Graydon took over the CEO position at Canada’s British Columbia Lottery Commission back in March 2008, he faced a formidable array of challenges that included political antipathy following serious allegations of retailer ticket sale fraud .
Almost five years on, he has successfully reorganised and re-energised the body; resolved difficult and innovative projects like the introduction of online gambling; expanded social responsibility programs…and in the process boosted annual revenue by $235 million.
But change is a constant, and Graydon has decided to leave for other challenges, effective next (March) month.
Finance Minister Michael de Jong said of Graydon’s resignation:
“It’s a loss for us, for the B.C. Lottery Corporation. He’s done a very good job.”
The minister added that Graydon was able to expand the corporation’s reach, but never lost sight of the role that the BCLC plays in promoting responsible gaming.
The Board has hired Jim Lightbody, the corporation’s vice-president of casino and community gaming, as the interim president and CEO, and he will assume the position immediately.