Sarah Fox, a senior civil servant from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), has been appointed to lead the Gambling Commission's policy, research, and statistics functions. This development was announced on Wednesday, marking a significant shift in leadership as she steps into some of the responsibilities previously held by Tim Miller, the outgoing executive director for policy and research. Miller has served the commission for a decade and is set to depart in September.
Fox comes to her new role with extensive experience, having spent the past four years at DCMS where she managed the gambling and lotteries team. During this time, she played a crucial role in developing and implementing the government's gambling white paper. Notably, she oversaw the recent transition of the National Lottery licence, which included the awarding of the tender to Allwyn in 2024, along with managing society lotteries and horse racing.
Her tenure has seen the DCMS initiate substantial reforms across the gambling sector, including a review of the 2005 Gambling Act and the introduction of measures such as online deposit limits. More recently, the department has unveiled the Voluntary Code for prize draw competitions and has opened a second consultation regarding potential bans on gambling sponsorships linked to unlicensed operators.
With over 23 years of experience in various government departments, including the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Care, Fox is well-equipped for her new responsibilities. Reflecting on her experience with gambling regulations, she stated, “So much has been achieved over a time that has been significant for the gambling sector and everyone with an interest in it.” Fox expressed her eagerness to support efforts aimed at “making gambling safer, fairer and crime free.”
Sarah Gardner, the acting chief executive of the Gambling Commission, praised Fox's appointment, emphasizing its significance in moving forward with the implementation of the white paper and safeguarding National Lottery players. "We are incredibly fortunate to have someone with Sarah's experience joining us," Gardner remarked.
Regarding her transition, Fox articulated her excitement about joining the commission, stating, “Over the last four years I’ve seen firsthand the work of the Commission, and the expertise, talent, and enthusiasm of its teams. The opportunity to cross over to the commission and help the team continue making gambling safer, fairer and crime free is one I am really excited to take.”
