William Hill announces hospitality guru Roger Devlin as new Chairman

Roger Devlin is to leave his post as Chairman of Sports Information Services (SIS) after nine years, to become Group Chairman of William Hill.

Departing his role at SIS on January 31 next year, Devlin will is to become the William Hill Chairman Designate on February 1, before being appointed Chairman when current incumbent Gareth Davis steps down on April 2.

Sir Roy Gardner, Senior Independent Director of William Hill, said about the appointment: “Roger Devlin has extensive experience as a listed company Chairman, in the City from his early days in corporate finance and across his sector relevant appointments at Hilton Group, Gamesys and SIS.

“We look forward to him joining as Chairman and continuing the strong recent progress the Group has made under Gareth’s chairmanship.  

“On behalf of the Board I would also like to take this early opportunity to thank Gareth Davis for his considerable contribution and commitment to the Group over the past seven years.  

“Gareth’s experience, energy and commitment have been of considerable benefit to William Hill as we seek to continue to grow the business online and internationally, and to deliver our strategy. We look forward to working with him in the coming months and wish him well for the future.”

Devlin, who has executive, non-executive and Chairman experience across the leisure, sport and betting and gaming sectors, said of his appointment: “William Hill is a business and brand I have greatly admired during my years in the leisure sector and more recently as Chair of SIS.  

“I recognise that there are both immediate challenges to address for the industry and considerable medium and longer term opportunities for the Group, and I look forward to working with Philip Bowcock, his executive team and the Board to deliver further progress for the Group and shareholders.”

SIS states that it has started the search for a new chair, and expects to make an announcement in the new year.