Andria Vidler has resigned as CEO of Allwyn UK, with industry veteran Phil Walker appointed as interim CEO. The announcement was made on Wednesday, revealing that Vidler will officially step down on September 7, after leading Allwyn UK's operations for nearly a year since her appointment in October 2022.
During her tenure, Vidler oversaw Allwyn’s pivotal transition to becoming the operator of the UK National Lottery. Both she and Allwyn UK Chair Justin King concurred that this was the appropriate time for her departure. To ensure a seamless transition, Vidler will continue with the company in an advisory role until the end of October.
King acknowledged Vidler’s significant contributions, noting her role in completing the necessary reforms of the National Lottery. "With the major transition milestones delivered, now is the right time to look to the future and build on the solid foundations that have been laid to create a strong platform for future growth," King remarked.
Vidler expressed that transforming the National Lottery is a long-term endeavor. "This feels like the right moment for me to pass on the baton," she said, highlighting that the organization is now in a stronger position to serve the nation.
Sources familiar with the situation indicated that Allwyn’s priorities remain focused on modernizing the National Lottery, enhancing player safety, and supporting charitable causes.
Phil Walker, who has extensive experience in the gaming sector, will take up the interim position. He previously held senior roles at William Hill for six years, including online managing director and CCO, and was most recently a non-executive director at City Gaming Limited. Walker is seen as a suitable candidate to lead the company while a permanent CEO is sought.
In a statement, Walker expressed his eagerness to build on Vidler's progress and further the National Lottery's positive impact on communities. "I am excited and proud to be taking up the baton from Andria and joining such a vital national institution at this important stage of its growth journey," he stated, emphasizing his long-time appreciation for the National Lottery’s contributions to UK communities.
