Isle of Man appoints Gregory Petts as the new head of Gambling Commission
Isle of Man's Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) announces Gregory Petts as its new chairman, appointed by the island's Treasury. Since joining the commission five years ago, Petts brings extensive experience in auditing, finance, and the gambling sector to his leadership role.
Jon Allen, who spent 15 years as chairman, stepped down last November, with David Butterworth filling the position temporarily before Petts' official term began in 2025.
The GSC emphasizes Petts' expertise in risk management, compliance, and internal auditing, underlining the hope that his leadership will help uphold industry standards and protect players. In his initial comments, Petts expressed the importance of achieving a balance between promoting responsible growth in the sector and maintaining a strong regulatory framework, while also stressing the importance of preserving the Isle of Man's international reputation as a trustworthy and respected regulatory jurisdiction.
Petts' background in auditing, finance, and gambling remains somewhat ambiguous, with no publicly available information detailing specific previous roles or experiences. However, it has been noted that he holds a professional reputation for expertise in governance, natural resource management, and sustainability.
Mark Rutherford was recently appointed CEO, while Nicola Libreri took on the deputy CEO position shortly after. The gambling sector contributes significantly to the Isle of Man's economy, with online gambling being its second-largest contributor to GDP. Its allure to international firms stems from a low corporate tax rate on revenue earned outside the island, attracting global operators like Entain and Playtech.
The GSC's mandate involves ensuring fair conduct by license holders, safeguarding minors and vulnerable groups, and preventing gambling-related crime or disorder. As the new chairman, Petts is set to navigate a steady transition within the commission and play a crucial role in the Isle of Man's growing gambling sector.
Gregory Petts, the newly appointed chairman, will utilize his expertise in casino-and-gambling, risk management, and general-news sectors to help maintain the Isle of Man's reputation as a trustworthy and respected regulatory jurisdiction for its growing gambling sector. As the GSC navigates a steady transition, Petts' leadership will focus on balancing responsible growth with a strong regulatory framework, while ensuring the protection of players and the prevention of gambling-related crime or disorder.
