Flutter Entertainment today announced that the CEO of its UK & Ireland (UK&I) business, Conor Grant, has resigned and will leave his role before year’s end for a planned career break to spend more time with his family after more than 20 years in the online gambling sector.
Ian Brown, former CEO of Booking.com’s Trips division (which includes Rentalcars.com) and Oliver Wyman Senior Partner, will join Flutter in September. Ian will succeed Conor, assuming responsibility for the Paddy Power, Sky Betting and Gaming, Betfair and Tombola brands in the UK & Ireland. Conor and Ian will work together to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.
Conor joined Sky Betting & Gaming 12 years ago, where he oversaw a hugely successful period for the company, including its sale to The Stars Group (TSG). Following Flutter’s merger with TSG two years ago, Conor has led the consolidation of Flutter’s UK&I business, including managing the business through the pandemic, leading the business’ response on the UK Government’s review of gambling legislation and successfully completing the acquisition of the UK’s leading bingo operator, Tombola.
Peter Jackson, chief executive officer of Flutter Entertainment, said:
“I would like to thank Conor for his significant contribution to Flutter. His work on the strategic vision and direction of our UK&I business has set us in great stead for the future, and his passion and determination to put our customers’ safety at the heart of what we do has anchored our industry-leading Play Well strategy. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Conor and will personally miss his sound commercial judgment and keen eye for business opportunities. I’m sorry to see him leave but wish him well for the future.
“I am delighted to welcome a leader of Ian’s caliber to our executive team. He brings with him broad experience leading online businesses from a range of sectors, including travel, hospitality, business services, and financial services. He has been responsible for successful transformations in multiple large businesses, including global brands Booking.com and Rentalcars.com, building scalable tech platforms and organizations with a deep customer focus on ease, accessibility and safety to drive growth.”
Conor Grant said: “I have been immensely proud to lead the UK&I business through such a momentous period for both Flutter and the wider industry. Flutter’s market leading brands, talented team and approach to safer gambling are what sets the business apart. I have no doubt that the business is in good hands and I look forward to seeing it continue to grow sustainably and responsibly into the future.”
Ian Brown added: “I have followed the impressive story of Flutter and its brands for many years now, and I am delighted to be joining the UK&I business in September. Flutter has a fantastic portfolio of iconic brands and I look forward to helping develop their leadership position in the online entertainment space.”
