Barry Gibson was honoured with induction into SBC’s prestigious Hall of Fame at last week’s SBC Summit in Lisbon, marking a significant moment as it also coincided with his final formal appearance as Chair of the Entain Group.
The surprise induction ceremony, hosted by SBC’s Managing Director, Andrew McCarron, took place during the exclusive SBC Leaders Summit, a gathering of 500 industry CEOs and C-level executives. The event was held on the 24th of September at the luxurious 5-star Myriad By Sana hotel.
Gibson commented: “I’m incredibly honoured to be inducted into the SBC Hall of Fame. Over the years, it has recognised some truly remarkable individuals, and I’m grateful to now be in their company as I step away from the industry. Hopefully, I’ve left behind a few valuable lessons along the way—that’s what really counts. It’s been an amazing journey, and I sincerely thank SBC for taking the time to honour me in such a special way.”
Launched by SBC in 2016, the Hall of Fame honours individuals whose achievements and lasting contributions have made a significant impact on the industry. Gibson joins fellow inductees Denise Coates (Founder & CEO, Bet365), Victor Chandler (Founder, BetVictor), Fred Done (Founder, Betfred), Chris Christie (Former Governor, New Jersey), David Rebuck (Former Director, NJ Department of Gaming Enforcement), Pontus Lindwall (CEO & Founder, Betsson AB), Norbert Teufelberger (Co-Founder, Bwin), John Anderson (Former CEO,888 Holdings PLC), Paris Smith (Former CEO, Pinnacle & Co-founder, Defy the Odds), Ralph Topping (Former Chairman, Superbet), and Roxy Roxborough (Legendary Las Vegas Oddsmaker), amongst others.
Discussing Gibson’s induction into the Hall of Fame, Andrew McCarron stated: "It was a privilege to present this award to a true industry icon, Barry Gibson. His leadership has undeniably left a lasting impact on this industry and the countless individuals fortunate enough to have worked alongside him. The Hall of Fame is about celebrating those who leave a legacy, and Barry is the embodiment of that."
Gibson has been a prominent figure in the global gaming and retail industries since starting his career with Littlewoods back in 1970. Renowned for his visionary leadership, innovative strategies, and transformative impact on the industry, Gibson has consistently been at the forefront of the sector.
Appointed Chairman of Entain in February 2020, Gibson led the company through a critical four-year period of transformation. Under his leadership, the company restructured the board, expedited Entain’s exit from unregulated markets and reinforced the pledge to operate solely in regulated markets. Gibson also prioritised a strong commitment to safer gambling and player protection throughout his tenure.
Prior to his role at Entain, Gibson held several prominent positions across leading companies. From 2007 to 2014, he served as Senior Independent Director and Remuneration Committee Chair (Remco Chair) at National Express. He held a similar role at William Hill from 2011 to 2019, playing a critical part in shaping the company's direction in the sports betting sector, and at Playtech from 2019 to 2020.
Additionally, in 2010, Gibson was appointed Non-Executive Chairman of HomeServe, a role he held for nine years. During his tenure, he guided the company through a period of significant growth, ultimately leading to its inclusion in the FTSE 100, a prestigious milestone that he would later replicate with Entain during his time as Chairman.
A winner of the Sunday Times/Peel Hunt FTSE All Share Non–Executive Awards, Gibson has a career marked by high-level roles across multiple industries. He is a Freeman of the City of London, a Companion of the British Institute of Management, and Honorary Life President of the Retail Trust.
In April 2024, it was announced that Gibson would be retiring by the end of September. Stella David has been acting as Interim CEO until Gavin Isaacs was appointed to the position, after which David transitioned into her new role as Chair.
