National Lottery operator chief executive to step down

The chief executive of the National Lottery operator Allwyn UK will step down in September. 

Andria Vidler has led the organisation for the past three years, but said it was the “right moment for me to pass on the baton”.

Allwyn UK, which became the licensed operator of the National Lottery in September 2023, said Vidler had overseen the “biggest transformation” of the lottery since its launch in 1994.

To date, Allwyn UK has invested £450m in the transformation project, which involved significant technology and infrastructure updates including a major upgrade to its website and app.

The organisation said that following the completion of various fourth-licence milestones, including the relaunch of NewLotto and the introduction of Powerball to the UK, it was agreed that this was the right moment for Vidler to step down.

Vidler joined Allwyn UK three years ago, having previously been the EMEA chief executive of the marketing production company Tag from January 2020 to July 2023. 

She was also the chief executive of Centaur Media from October 2013 to October 2019.

Phil Walker has been appointed interim chief executive of Allwyn UK with effect from September, with Vidler remaining in an advisory capacity for a transition period through to the end of October.

Walker joins the organisation after six years at William Hill in various roles, including UK and Ireland managing director, online managing director and chief commercial officer.

Vidler said: “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.”

Justin King, Allwyn UK’s chair, said: “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.”

Walker added: “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.”