Lottery boss to away and raffle

Allwyn UK CEO Andria Vidler is to step down after overseeing the transition to the Fourth National Lottery licence and a major transformation of The National Lottery.

Since Allwyn was formally awarded the licence in September 2023, the business has completed significant technology and infrastructure upgrades for its 43,500 retail partners, alongside major enhancements to its website and app. During the period, it also welcomed one million new active digital users, relaunched Lotto, introduced Powerball to the UK and launched new online and scratchcard games.

Following the completion of these Fourth Licence transition milestones, Allwyn UK Chair Justin King and Vidler agreed that it was the right time for her to step down.

Phil Walker has been appointed interim CEO. He joins from William Hill, where he spent six years in a variety of senior roles, including UK & Ireland Managing Director, Online Managing Director and Chief Commercial Officer.

Walker brings digital, commercial and operational transformation experience to the role. During his time at William Hill, the business delivered growth in market share, revenue and profit across its digital and retail channels.

He will lead the business while a search is conducted for a permanent successor. Vidler will remain in an advisory capacity during a transition period until the end of October.

Andria Vidler said transforming the lottery was a marathon, not a sprint.

She added: “I wish Justin, Phil and everyone at Allwyn the very best for the future — and look forward to becoming a player again myself.”