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(AsiaGameHub) –   The Gambling Commission is taking steps to enhance its efforts against illegal gambling by establishing a new Head of Illegal Markets position.

This role will be focused on overseeing major investigations and disruption operations targeting operators involved in the black market, as the licensed sector continues to confront the expanding influence of unlicensed providers.

Reporting directly to the Commission’s Director of Enforcement and Intelligence, John Pierce, the appointed individual will be based within the Operations Directorate and will play a key part in developing and leading the regulator’s approach to illegal gambling throughout the UK.

As outlined in the job description, the role will involve coordinating resources between the Enforcement and Intelligence divisions while collaborating closely with the Illegal Markets team, Sports Betting Integrity Unit, as well as departments including Legal, Policy, Strategy, and Communications.

The regulator emphasized that this position will be “essential” in advancing its wider strategy to tackle illegal gambling and build “a safer and more transparent gambling environment across Great Britain.”

Applicants are expected to have substantial leadership experience and a background in criminal investigation, particularly those with expertise in investigative techniques, enforcement planning, and cooperation with legal teams during complex cases.

Is the Gambling Commission responding to industry demands?

This development comes at a critical time for the licensed industry, which has repeatedly highlighted rising player engagement with platforms operated outside the regulatory framework.

Earlier this week, Entain’s Chief Executive Officer, Stella David, addressed the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), urging a ban on sponsorships involving unlicensed operators in the Premier League.

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has also been vocal in advocating for stricter measures against the black market. In a recent update, the BGC referenced research from H2 Gambling Capital indicating that the offshore betting market is projected to reach £16.6 billion by 2025—up from approximately £5 billion in 2019.

Nevertheless, many stakeholders in the UK gambling industry believe current actions against black market operators remain insufficient, especially given the government’s primary focus on regulating licensed businesses.

Among the most contentious policy moves has been the increase of Remote Gaming Duty to 40%. The sector is also under pressure to revise retail betting rules—such as reversing the Aim to Permit regulation—and to address ongoing public and political concerns about advertising practices, particularly in sports.

Still, the introduction of a dedicated role to combat illegal gambling in the UK may be welcomed by those who have long called for stronger action against these operators.

The move follows the formation of the DCMS illegal gambling task force in late January, led by Labour peer Baroness Twycross. It offers further reassurance to the regulated industry that the government remains committed to addressing the challenge posed by unregulated gambling activities.

Although the position is still open and was only recently advertised, whoever assumes the role is likely to attract significant attention from industry participants.