The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) announced on Monday that Ruth Evans will take over as the new full-time chair of the Gambling Commission, succeeding Charles Counsell. Counsell has led the Commission since February 2025, following the departure of Marcus Boyle in January of the previous year.
Evans, who founded and chairs Stop Scams UK, will officially begin her five-year term on September 30. Stop Scams UK brings together banks, technology firms, and telecommunication providers to tackle payment fraud, highlighting Evans' commitment to addressing financial crime.
Her extensive background in public safety includes leadership positions at the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) and the Bar Standards Board. Additionally, she has served on the General Medical Council as a lay member and worked as a non-executive director of the Serious Fraud Office, where she led the development of a voluntary industry code aimed at reimbursing victims of authorised push payment (APP) scams, which was introduced in 2018.
As Evans steps into her new role, Counsell emphasized that the Gambling Commission is in the process of developing a new strategy focused on combating illegal gambling. He noted that Evans would have a crucial role in finalizing the measures laid out in the Gambling Act review’s white paper.
In her statement, Evans expressed her dedication to improving "online safety" through balanced regulations that involve collaboration among regulators, industry stakeholders, and technology companies. DCMS Secretary of State Lisa Nandy remarked, "She becomes chair at this incredibly important time, supporting a sustainable, thriving industry with the essential protections needed to prevent harm."
Evans's appointment comes amid a significant transition within the Gambling Commission, as Tim Miller, the agency's policy and research director, is also departing after a decade in his role.
