HBLB names former William Hill chief Roger Devlin as new chairman
Great Britain’s Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) has announced the appointment of Roger Devlin, formerly of William Hill and Gamesys, as its new chairman.
Devlin will move into the position on 1 July. He will replace Anne Lambert, who has served as chairman since the passing of Paul Darling in August last year.
An experienced executive, Devlin has been chairman of housebuilding company Persimmon Homes since June 2018. This overlapped with his spell as chairman of William Hill, where he worked from February 2018 to April 2021 until its sale to Caesars.
Prior to this, he spent almost five years as chairman of pub and hotel operator Marston’s. He also spent time as chair of broadcast connectivity provider SIS Live, as well as Porthaven.
Devlin’s other experience in the gambling industry came during a 10-year spell as chairman of Gamesys, now part of Bally’s. He also owns horses in training with Anthony Honeyball and William Muir, and was co-owner of Pyledriver, the winner of the King George and Coronation Cup.
In addition, he spent six and a half years as an independent director of the English Football Association.
Devlin’s appointment was confirmed by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.
Devlin to champion investment in racing
Commenting on his appointment, Devlin acknowledged the horse racing sector is currently facing “considerable challenge”. However, he also spoke about new opportunities for the sector.
“My focus will be consistent with the Levy’s key objectives – to promote investment and employment in racing; to enhance racehorse welfare wherever possible; to improve the reputation of the sport and thereby generate increased interest,” Devlin said.
“I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the wider team, as well as racing and betting organisations, in pursuit of these goals.”
The HBLB has been vocal in its opposition to proposed changes to tax rates in Britain. In April, the treasury announced a tax consultation, proposing replacing three online betting tax rates with a single rate. This launched on 6 May and is due to close on 21 July.
Current rates comprise Remote Gaming Duty (RGD), General Betting Duty (GBD) and Pool Betting Duty (PBD). Remote activities are hit by RGD at 21% of operator profit, while GBD is taxed at 15% of profit and PBD at 15% of net stake receipts.
However, the HBLB said this threatens an overall tax increase for online gaming, which could heavily impact the horse racing sector.