Association of British Bookmakers selects new CEO

Malcolm George has been announced as the Association of British Bookmakers’ new Chief Executive Officer.

George – who has a background in working with technology firms – will replace Martin Cruddance who stunned the ABB when he swiftly departed his interim post to take up a senior position with the Arena Racing Company.

Cruddace’s departure came just months after previous CEO Dirk Vennix quit the position in January of this year.

According to Calvin Ayre, George’s time with Dell, Hewlett Packard and Electronic Data Systems has left him well equipped for the rigors of his new position.

Indeed, with the anti-gambling movement keen to curb the hold bookmakers have come to have over the high street, George’s experience at handling government regulators is sure to prove telling.

In interviews, the newcomer has talked about having a “drive and commitment that will help secure the future of high-street betting offices across the country and the tens of thousands of people who work in them.”

George went on to say, “The ABB provides the best forum to bring together the views of both large and small high street betting shop owners. Throughout my discussions with the ABB I have been struck by the members’ commitment to responsible gambling and their wish to see evidence-based regulatory and tax regimes that allow them to serve effectively their millions of customers.

“I hope to bring to this role a drive and commitment that will help secure the future of high street betting offices across the country and the tens of thousands of people who work in them.”

As for his predecessors, ABB Chairman Paul Darling thanked Cruddace for his service while the search was conducted for a full-time replacement for Vennix, who is now employed by the Confederation of Timber Industries.

Of Cruddace, Chairman Darling said, “Martin stepped into the role of Interim Chief Executive at short notice and has provided strong leadership and support for the ABB throughout his time in the role. Martin’s knowledge of the betting industry and experience across the gambling sector has helped ensure that the ABB has remained a highly effective organisation, during our search for a new, full-time CEO.”

Updated on 10th April 2019