UKGC talks about diversity and inclusivity

The recently appointed Chief Executive said that the industry needs more inclusivity and diversity.

UK.- Neil McArthur, chief executive of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), has issued his first keynote address, in which he says that he will continue his predecessor’s work and will insist on improving diversity and inclusion to create a safer environment for the industry in the United Kingdom.

“I have been with the Commission for over 12 years. I am proud of the Commission’s achievements over that time – but there is still much to be done to create a fairer and safer gambling market for British consumers. I’m particularly pleased to be here to speak about diversity and inclusivity as we need more diversity in the gambling industry. For example, I am struck by the fact that after 12 years I am still a relative newcomer compared to many of the people I meet from the industry,” McArthur said.

The CEO added that how to balance consumer choice and enjoyment against the risks gambling can create and its impact on wider society is one of the biggest challenges for the UKGC. “But, the challenge of balancing of consumer choice with the risks associated with gambling isn’t something the Gambling Commission can address on its own. So I want to say something about collaboration, innovation and how important both are with regards to achieving what we want to achieve.”

McArthur said that there is a link between diversity and performance, and that collaboration and collective strength can help achieve better outcomes. “Key to moving beyond group thinking is diversity – not recruiting from the same pool. Moving beyond what looks, sounds and feels like us to be diverse in terms of backgrounds, ages, opinions. It’s this diversity that will create challenge, scrutiny, which in turn leads to the best thinking, the new ideas and the brave steps forward. The initiatives that change the world come from this kind of thinking and without diversity of input at every level within your organisation you simply do not get that.”