Exclusive: Patrick Jonker steps down as William Hill International MD

William Hill International (WHI) managing director Patrick Jonker will step down from his role at the end of October after less than three years with the firm. Jonker, who previously served as MD of Betsson Group, joined WHI in March 2019 and oversaw the integration of the Mr Green brand which led to the creation of the WHI business. His departure is understood to be a personal decision and not as a direct result of the forthcoming acquisition of William Hill’s UK and International operations (which excludes the US) by 888. William Hill COO Stephen Parry will assume the role of MD of William Hill International on an interim basis while the search for Jonker’s successor gets underway. Jonker will work with Parry during this period to ensure a smooth transition of the business during his final weeks at the firm. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished at William Hill International over the past two-and-a-half years,” said Jonker. “This transition has been in discussion for some time but the timing needed to be right. “I am pleased to say we are now at a point where I feel comfortable stepping aside for new management to prepare for the next chapter for William Hill International,” Jonker added. Last month, 888 agreed a £2.2bn deal to acquire the non-US parts of the business, with the deal expected to complete during the first half of 2022. William Hill CEO Ulrik Bengtsson, who also worked with Jonker at Betsson Group, paid tribute to his performance. Bengtsson said: “I would like to thank Patrick for his leadership of the William Hill International team over the last two and a half years and wish him the best of luck in his next challenge.”