James Henderson has been named chief executive officer of UK bookmaker William Hill, effective from August 1.
Henderson, who will replace Ralph Topping, has been with the company for 29 years and is currently group director of operations with oversight for the UK retail business, online, William Hill Australia and William Hill US.
Chairman Gareth Davis said his appointment followed an “extensive and thorough” review of applicants.
“His breadth of knowledge spans the whole group, having worked in both the major divisions, overseen the establishment of William Hill US and, most recently, taken responsibility for William Hill Australia,” he said. “His established relationships, both with the strong cadre of senior managers and within the wider industry, ensure he is the best person both to sustain the momentum William Hill has achieved under Ralph and to progress further the digital and international diversification of the group.”
Topping steps down after having spent 44 years with the company and, under his leadership, said Henderson, the group is “in the best competitive shape” and boasts an “unrivalled team.”
“While we face challenges as an industry,” Henderson continued, “there are also plenty of opportunities to keep strengthening William Hill by further diversifying our revenues and continuing to build a responsible, sustainable business."
