James Henderson resigns as CEO of William Hill

William Hill has this morning announced that James Henderson has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect.

Philip Bowcock, Chief Financial Officer of William Hill will manage corporate leadership as Interim CEO. Issuing a market update, William Hill governance stated that the search for Henderson’s replacement had been instigated.

A William Hill governance veteran, James Henderson had been appointed leader of the company in August 2014 replacing long-term CEO Ralph Topping (2007-2014).

As yet little is known of Henderson’s decision to step down as Leader of William Hill. During his two-year leadership tenure the FTSE-listed operator has been marred by profit warnings due to higher taxes and the declining performance of its digital division.

William Hill Chairman Gareth Davis commented on the departure of Henderson;

“James’s career with William Hill has spanned over 30 years covering the Retail, online and international businesses. We would like to thank him for his significant contribution and we wish him all the best for the future.”

“Philip has a clear set of priorities as Interim CEO, principally the continued turnaround of the Online business. We will confirm a successor in the coming months.”

William Hill expects to inform investors further on its executive changes when its publishes its H1 2016 results (period ending 28 June) on 5 August, with an interim CFO expected to be announced.

The company said it remained on course to meet its guidance of £260 – 280 million in annual operating profits this year.