Allwyn appoints Andria Vidler as UK chief executive

Vidler succeeds Robert Chvátal, who has served as interim CEO of Allwyn UK since the departure of David Craven in January 2023. Craven held the role for 18 months, from July 2021.

Chvátal will continue as in his main position as Allwyn’s group CEO.

As CEO, Vidler will lead Allwyn UK as it prepares to take control of the National Lottery in February 2024. Allwyn was awarded the fourth National Lottery licence in September 2022, ending Camelot’s 28-year tenure. It then acquired Camelot’s UK operations in November last year.

Vidler takes in the role after a spell as CEO of marketing production business Tag Worldwide. Prior to this, she was CEO of Centaur Media and CEO of EMI Music in the UK and Ireland.

Earlier in her career, Vidler held senior positions with Bauer Media, Magic Radio and Capital Radio. She also spent time working in marketing and business development at the BBC.

Vidler also served as a non-executive board member at Gamesys between June 2018 and November. In addition, she has been a non-executive board member at 888 since June 2022, but will step down as a result of her Allywn role.

“Exciting opportunity” at Allwyn

“This is such an exciting opportunity to ensure The National Lottery, a hugely loved UK brand that delivers immense benefits to society, is in the best shape possible for the future,” Vidler said. “I can’t wait to get to work alongside partners and colleagues from across our Allwyn and Camelot teams to make this vision a reality.”

Allwyn UK chair Justin King added: “Andria’s extensive expertise in helping entertainment brands adapt to the realities and opportunities of a data-enabled, multichannel landscape will be a fantastic asset to The National Lottery.  

“I’m delighted to have her on board, as well as continuing to benefit from Robert’s global lottery expertise as a UK board member and active supporter for the UK team.”

Lord Mendelsohn, executive chair of 888, also paid tribute to Vidler after she stepped down from the operator’s board, as a result of her new position.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to congratulate Andria on her appointment to this new role,” he said. “I want to thank her wholeheartedly for the significant contributions she has made during her time with 888. 

“Her support and extensive experience have been invaluable as we have continued our work to deliver against our long-term strategic objectives following the acquisition of William Hill. We wish her all the best for the future.”