Rank names David Williams as director of public affairs
Williams worked with Rank CEO John O’Reilly between 2004 and 2010 at Ladbrokes
Rank Group has named former Ladbrokes PR chief David Williams as its new director of public affairs, it was announced today.
Williams will join the omni-channel operator on 3 December from his current role as director of communications at racetrack pool betting operation britbet.
Williams previously worked with Rank CEO John O’Reilly between 2004 and 2010 when O’Reilly headed up the Ladbrokes digital division.
The new role will see Rank bring its government relations and public affairs in-house, while Williams will also take a leadership role in PR for the group and its brands.
“David brings a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise to the Group and I am delighted that we have secured him to fulfil what will be a pivotal role as we reposition Rank for success,” said John O’Reilly.
“His energy and passion for our industry, coupled with a track-record of delivering successful results will stand us in good stead for the regulatory challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I am looking forward to welcoming him to the management team next month.”
Rank has been overhauling its senior executive team in recent months, with a new CFO named in October after the group appointed a new CIO and chief transformation officer in August.
Williams added: “The opportunity to join John at such an exciting time for the Group has proved irresistible.
“Ensuring that our public affairs, social positioning and industry relations are compelling and in-tune with wider regulatory affairs has never been so significant.
“I’ve been struck by just how much attention John and the Rank Board wish to put on this area of the business. The chance to work alongside a very talented and focused management team, with some great betting and gaming brands, is something that excites me enormously.”