The Rank Group Plc appoints David Williams as Director of Public Affairs

Rank is pleased to announce the appointment of David Williams as its Director of Public Affairs.

David will take up the newly-created role on 3 December 2018, reporting into Rank’s Chief Executive, John O’Reilly, as the Group continues to bolster its senior leadership team as part of the wider business transformational programme.

David joins Rank from the racecourse pool-betting operation, Britbet, where he has been the Director of Communications. Prior to that, he spent 13 years at Ladbrokes, most recently as Director of Media, having earlier headed the group’s consumer public relations activity.

The role will see Rank bring responsibility for their government relations and public affairs in-house; David will also take a leadership role in the public relations activity for the Group and for the various Rank brands.

John O’Reilly, Rank’s Chief Executive said: “David brings a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise to the Group and I am delighted that we have secured him to fulfil what will be a pivotal role as we reposition Rank for success. His energy and passion for our industry, coupled with a track-record of delivering successful results will stand us in good stead for the regulatory challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I am looking forward to welcoming him to the management team next month.”

David Williams said: “The opportunity to join John at such an exciting time for the Group has proved irresistible. Ensuring that our public affairs, social positioning and industry relations are compelling and in-tune with wider regulatory affairs has never been so significant. I’ve been struck by just how much attention John and the Rank Board wish to put on this area of the business. The chance to work alongside a very talented and focused management team, with some great betting and gaming brands, is something that excites me enormously.”