The CEO of British gambling giant Entain has stepped down with immediate effect after a brief six-month stint.
The parent company announced Gavin Isaac’s departure early in the morning on February 11, 2025, stating that he was leaving “by mutual agreement”.
The gambling giant appointed Isaacs in July 2024, and he officially took on the role as Entain’s CEO in September, succeeding the current chair, Stella David.
David Brohan, gaming/leisure analyst for Goodbody, commented that the situation was “disappointing”
Brohan said: “Entain has delivered several operational improvements in the past 12 months.
“Despite this, we expect today’s announcement to be poorly received, as we enter another period of uncertainty around management.”
Isaacs is an Australian lawyer with over 25 years of experience in the sports betting and gaming industry.
While employed at Entain, he alerted the UK government about potential job losses in the gambling sector due to announced taxes.
What happens with Entain now?
The company announced that David would fill the role of Entain’s CEO temporarily until the company hired a replacement.
Shares within the company had dropped by 10% following Isaacs’s resignation, but the company remains steadfast.
David said: “Entain is making strong progress in delivering our strategic priorities. We would like to thank Gavin for his contribution.
“The board and management remain aligned on the group’s focus on operational excellence and maximizing shareholder value.
“I look forward to leading the business as we continue to accelerate our performance.”
The gambling operator has required an Entain CEO since Jette Nygaard Anderson stepped down in December 2023. This was spurred by reports claiming investors were not satisfied with her leadership.
Earlier this year, the business stated that it anticipates full-year earnings at the high end of its forecast. Tax and interest aside, estimates range between $1.29 billion and $1.35 billion.
Entain is a major player in the global sports betting and gaming industry. Founded in 2004, it is the parent company of well-known betting brands such as Ladbrokes, Sportingbet, and more.
In other news, investors sought £100 million payout from Ladbrokes and Entain last year as shares were reportedly halved.
Featured image: Entain
