Entain plc, the global sports betting and gaming group, has announced that Dean Shannon, CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand will be stepping down on 30 June 2025.
The Australian and New Zealand businesses are entering a new phase of their development and Mr Shannon has agreed it is time for change.
This transition coincides with the completion of the AML/CTF Uplift Programme and the introduction of a ‘legislative net’ to support the New Zealand racing and wagering industry – both are expected to be completed in June, and over the last two years Shannon has been critical to the delivery of both priorities.
Shannon is committed to ensure a transparent and orderly transition to set the business up for long-term success.
“We thank Dean for his significant contribution to Entain, and for managing the Australian and New Zealand businesses,” Stella David, Group CEO of Entain said.
“The growth and integration of Neds and Lads into our global portfolio of podium position brands has been a particular highlight and he has more recently delivered what we believe is a market leading compliance programme in Australia.”
“As the Australian business enters its next phase, we will continue to demonstrate our commitment to compliance and responsibly deliver great products to our customers.”
Andrew Vouris has been appointed Interim CEO.
Vouris brings 17 years of leadership experience in wagering, operations and innovation at some of Australia’s biggest wagering operators, including Tabcorp and Entain.
During his tenure at Tabcorp, Vouris had leadership roles in its multi-billion-dollar wagering and media business. He also played a key role in managing complex regulatory and compliance matters—including the remediation of commercial operations in response to Tabcorp’s AUSTRAC proceedings and direct engagement with the Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission.
More recently, Vouris led the global operations of a pioneering esports and wagering platform and worked with private equity backing early-stage ventures in esports.
Shannon becomes the latest, and most high-profile executive to depart the Australian and New Zealand operation of the global giant, which runs the Ladbrokes and Neds brands in Australia and has a long-term agreement in place to operate TAB NZ, as well as the betcha brand in New Zealand.
A process has commenced for a permanent CEO.