Rank Group Faces Another Leadership Shift as CEO O’Reilly Steps Aside

Rank Group is preparing for a significant leadership transition, as its long-standing CEO, John O’Reilly, has announced his intention to step away from the role later this month. This development marks the end of an eventful chapter in the company’s history. O’Reilly oversaw transformation efforts that helped Rank Group regain its footing and achieve substantial momentum.

O’Reilly Will Remain Involved to Secure a Smooth Transition

The London-based gaming operator confirmed that O’Reilly would resign as CEO effective January 29. He will be temporarily replaced by the current CFO, Richard Harris, who will take over the position the following day. The search for a new CEO is already underway, with the board signaling that continuity and strategic discipline will be central to the selection process.

While O’Reilly will step down from day-to-day leadership, he will remain part of the business until the end of the 2025/26 financial year, offering his support during the transition. His departure follows a tenure of nearly eight years, marked by steady rebuilding after regulatory pressure, pandemic disruption, and shifting consumer habits in the UK.

Incoming interim CEO Richard Harris brings a financial and commercial perspective to the role. He joined Rank in 2022 as CFO after holding senior positions at Foxtons Group,Laird Plc, and Marks and Spencer Plc. As an executive director, Harris has been involved in  Rank’s recent capital allocation decisions, positioning him as a reliable influence while the board searches for a permanent successor.

Rank Group Must Navigate a Turbulent Period

Board chair John H. Ott praised O’Reilly’s contribution, pointing to his vast experience and long-term impact on the gambling sector.  Ott credited him with putting Rank on a firmer footing and setting a clear strategic direction that the company can now expand upon. O’Reilly has also been an influential figure in shaping discourse around responsible gambling and regulatory reform during a turbulent period for UK operators.

His extensive gambling industry knowledge and experience have combined to ensure that Rank is well positioned to build on the direction he established.

John H. Ott, Rank Group board chair

This leadership change comes amid broader shifts at the board level. Last autumn, Rank announced the resignation of chairman Alex Thursby. That transition concluded in November with the appointment of Ott as chair, bolstering the business with much-needed strategic experience at a pivotal time for the company.

Despite improved trading performance, challenges remain. The UK government’s decision to increase gambling taxes has negatively affected the broader gambling sector, prompting operators to re-evaluate their margins and investment strategies. As Rank looks ahead, the coming months will test whether the foundations laid during O’Reilly’s tenure will withstand the ongoing turbulence.