Former AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan Appointed as Tabcorp Chief Executive Amid Industry Scrutiny

Gillon McLachlan, the former long-serving AFL chief executive, has been appointed to the top role at the listed betting company Tabcorp. The appointment comes as scrutiny increases on the close ties between wagering companies and sports.

McLachlan’s selection is seen as a move to expedite growth, leveraging his extensive experience in the wagering and sports industries. This decision is made against a backdrop of mounting pressure from various stakeholders seeking to sever the strong links between professional sports and gambling.

Tabcorp’s executive chairman, Bruce Akhurst, expressed confidence in McLachlan’s capabilities, citing his profound understanding of sport, racing, and wagering. McLachlan, who led the AFL for a decade, is set to assume the position of chief executive at Tabcorp in early August, subject to necessary approvals.

The 51-year-old is poised to join an Australian wagering company that has been under public scrutiny due to advocacy from anti-gambling groups and competitive pressure from international bookmakers such as Sportsbet and Entain, who appeal to younger demographics through mobile betting apps.

Moving from his successful tenure at the AFL, McLachlan’s new role at Tabcorp will challenge him to capitalize on the company’s extensive retail network and enhance its online business presence. He aims to navigate the difficulties facing Tabcorp’s online segment in competing with international competitors.

McLachlan expressed enthusiasm for the task ahead, emphasizing the need to provide safe entertainment while expanding the customer omni-channel offering across digital, retail, and media businesses. The former Tabcorp chief executive, Adam Rytenskild, resigned in March, paving the way for McLachlan’s anticipated appointment.