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Michael Dugher steps down from BGC chair position
Effective from January 14, 2026, Michael Dugher has stepped down as the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chair after six years with the trade body.
Dugher had led the BGC since December 2019 as CEO and later succeeded Brigid Simmonds as chair in April 2025. During his time at the BGC, he supervised the introduction and adoption of 20 new safer gambling codes and 100 new standards.
Dugher commented:
“I would like to thank all the BGC members and staff who supported me over the years, especially the BGC’s superb chief executive, Grainne Hurst. I would also like to pay tribute to the many ministers, shadow ministers, and officials at DCMS with whom I was privileged to work. I wish the industry, and the sports that rely on its funding, not least British horseracing, all the very best for the future.”
Grainne Hurst, who stepped up as BGC CEO after Dugher, noted that Dugher’s contributions to the body were exceptional.
Hurst stated:
“From the outset, he brought clarity of purpose, a trusted standing with policymakers and regulators, and a steadfast commitment to championing a responsible, well-regulated betting and gaming industry.”
Following his departure, Dugher will become head of Brunswick Group’s UK public affairs practice.
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