The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has confirmed updated details for its 2026 Annual General Meeting, following the announced departure of Gambling Commission CEO Andrew Rhodes.
The AGM will take place on 26 February 2026 at 11 Cavendish Square in London and will focus on the growing risks posed by the illegal gambling market.
The event, titled “The illegal market: Real risk. Real harm.”, will bring together industry members, policymakers and regulators to discuss the impact of unlicensed gambling and the challenges facing the regulated sector.
While Andrew Rhodes had previously been expected to participate, the BGC has confirmed that Tim Miller, Executive Director of Research and Policy at the Gambling Commission, will now appear as a keynote speaker instead.
Rhodes is due to step down from his role as Gambling Commission CEO on 30 April 2026, with Sarah Gardner appointed as Acting CEO during the transition period.
The BGC has publicly acknowledged Rhodes’ tenure, with Grainne Hurst, CEO of BGC, stating: “On behalf of the betting and gaming industry, I would like to thank Andrew for his professionalism in leading our regulator. His hands-on approach and willingness to engage directly with the industry helped foster a more informed and productive working relationship, even where views did not always align.
"Throughout his time in post, Andrew recognised the importance of strong consumer protections alongside the fact that around 22.5 million adults in Britain enjoy a bet each month. I wish him every success for the future.
“I look forward to working closely with Sarah Gardner as she steps up as Acting Chief Executive during this transitional period.”
Alongside Miller, the AGM’s confirmed keynote speakers include Baroness Fiona Twycross, Minister for Gambling, and Nigel Huddleston, Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.
The event will be hosted by broadcaster and former MP Gloria De Piero, alongside economist and journalist Liam Halligan.
A central feature of the AGM will be a panel discussion examining the relationship between taxation, regulation and the growth of the illegal market. Panel participants include representatives from EY, the Gambling Commission, law enforcement and major operators, reflecting a cross-sector approach to the issue.
The updated agenda comes amid a period of leadership change at the BGC itself, following the recent departure of Chairman Michael Dugher.
Andrew Rhodes will leave his role as Gambling Commission CEO on 30 April 2026, with Sarah Gardner serving as Acting CEO during the transition period
