It has been a “milestone year” for UK-based bookmaker William Hill, the company’s chairman Gareth Davis said.
Speaking at the company’s AGM today, Davis reported that the group had delivered “strong organic” performance with 2012 revenues up 12 per cent and operating profit up 20 per cent.
He also revealed that Ralph Topping (pictured) has “indicated his desire” to continue as chief executive until at least the end of 2015.
“At the time of announcing in June 2011 that we would be retaining Ralph’s services until at least the end of 2013, I indicated the critical importance of keeping him in the business given his extensive experience over 43 years with William Hill,” he said. “I am delighted he plans to stay longer as I believe he remains uniquely qualified to lead the group through this ongoing transformational period.”
The company continues to manage the succession planning for the chief executive role, he explained, adding that the preference is to look internally for candidates first.
Topping praised the progress made by the company over the last five years. “We now have significant opportunities to transform this business, with more of our revenues and profits than ever before coming from online, from mobile and from international territories.
“I am confident we have the management team in place to deliver further value and am delighted to continue to lead this team at such an exciting stage in William Hill’s growth and development.”
