Phil Walker Image

Source: Allwyn UK

Phil Walker will take over as CEO of Allwyn UK on an interim basis

Allwyn UK has announced the appointment of Phil Walker as its new interim CEO.

Taking over from outgoing CEO Andria Vidler from 7 September, Walker joins following six years at William Hill in a variety of roles including UK & Ireland managing director, online managing director and chief commercial officer.

During his time leading the business in the UK, William Hill delivered significant market share, revenue and profit growth across both its Digital and Retail channels. His expertise is expected to support Allwyn as it focuses on digital transformation and the next phase of growth for The National Lottery.

According to Allwyn, Walker’s appointment will ensure an orderly transition and continued focus on growth while a search is undertaken for a permanent successor. Vidler will remain in an advisory capacity in a transition period to support Phil and Justin through to the end of October.

Justin King, chair of Allwyn Entertainment Limited (Allwyn UK), thanked Vidler for her time in the role.

“Since Andria joined us, she has led from the front through an intense period of change, helping to complete the much-needed and long-overdue transformation of The National Lottery.

“With the major transition milestones delivered, now is the right time to look to the future and build on the solid foundations that have been laid to create a strong platform for future growth. We are pleased to welcome Phil as Interim CEO as we continue to modernise and strengthen The National Lottery for players, retailers and Good Causes.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Andria for leading this transformation with drive, focus and commitment, and I wish her every future success.”

Phil Walker, incoming Interim CEO of Allwyn Entertainment Limited (Allwyn UK), said: “I am excited and proud to be taking up the baton from Andria and joining such a vital national institution at this important stage of its growth journey. As a long-standing National Lottery player, I know first-hand the difference it makes to communities across the UK and this is a huge part of what attracted me to the role. It will be a real honour to help build on the progress already made.”

Andria Vidler, outgoing CEO of Allwyn Entertainment Limited (Allwyn UK), added: “It has been a huge privilege to lead Allwyn UK through such an important period for The National Lottery. The last three years have required enormous focus and commitment from colleagues right across the business, and I am proud of what we have delivered together. Above all, I am proud that this work has helped strengthen The National Lottery’s ability to raise vital funds for Good Causes across the UK.

“But transforming The National Lottery is a marathon, not a sprint, and with the major transition now complete, and The National Lottery in a stronger position to keep delivering for the nation, this feels like the right moment for me to pass on the baton. I wish Justin, Phil and everyone at Allwyn the very best for the future — and look forward to becoming a player again myself.”