Tim Miller will step down from his role as Executive Director of Policy and Research at the UK Gambling Commission in September 2026, ending a decade at the regulator in one of the most significant periods of change for the UK gambling sector.
The Commission confirmed this Miller will transition to an international advisory role outside the UK’s regulated gambling industry, where it will work with governments, regulators and other organizations that develop and oversee gambling regulatory systems. His departure follows recent leadership changes at the regulator, including the exit of former chief executive Andrew Rhodes, as the Commission continues to search for a permanent chair.
Miller joined the Gambling Commission in 2016 and has since become one of its most prominent senior figures, leading policy development and research while helping to shape many of the regulatory reforms introduced following the government’s Gambling Act Review.
Decade of regulatory reform
During his tenure, Miller oversaw the expansion of the Commission’s research capabilities and played a key role in building the evidence base used to support regulatory decision-making. One of his most prominent projects was the creation and launch of the Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB), described by the Commission as the largest gambling survey in the world.
The survey has become a primary data source for policymakers and regulators, although its methodology has drawn criticism from some industry stakeholders, who argue that the survey may overestimate gambling participation and gambling-related harm.
Miller also directed the Commission’s work to implement measures contained in the 2023 Gambling Law Review White Paper. The reforms introduce updated age verification requirements, financial vulnerability checks, changes to remote gaming design, stricter direct marketing regulations, and a range of other consumer protection measures designed to make gambling safer and reduce criminal activity in the sector.
Some of these initiatives, particularly financial vulnerability checks, have generated major debate across the industry, with operators voicing concerns over their practical implementation while regulators state that they are intended to strengthen player protections.
Reflecting on his decision to leave, Miller said: "I have worked at the Commission longer than anywhere else in my career and I have found this role to be the most rewarding and fulfilling. This is largely due to the extraordinary and dedicated colleagues I have had the pleasure of working with. That is what made me take the difficult decision to leave, but after ten years I feel ready for the next challenge.”
In a separate LinkedIn post, he added: “Today I announced to my colleagues that after a decade at the Gambling Commission, I have decided it is time for the next chapter.
"This commission has been the most fun and rewarding part of my career so far and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with brilliant people who care deeply about enforcing regulations. But for me, ten years has always felt like the right time to take on a new challenge.”
He also confirmed that his future work will focus on providing advice to governments and regulators internationally.
“I am now looking forward to working for myself,” Miller wrote.
“This includes international collaboration with a number of governments, regulators and organizations focused on supporting the development of well-regulated and competitive markets.”
Leadership changes continue
Miller’s resignation comes at a time of significant change among the Commission’s senior leadership.
Former chief executive Andrew Rhodes resigned earlier this year before joining gambling consultancy Hawkbridge, a move that drew criticism from some observers over a potential conflict of interest. The regulator is also continuing efforts to appoint a permanent chairman.
Despite the changes, the Commission said arrangements regarding Miller’s responsibilities would be announced before his departure.
Acting Chief Executive Sarah Gardner praised his contribution to the organisation, saying in a press release: "Tim has provided outstanding service to the Commission for ten years. I would like to thank Tim for his significant contribution to gambling regulation and wish him every success in the future.”
International roles await
Rather than joining another gambling operator or business, Miller will remain outside the UK’s regulated gambling industry while continuing to work on gambling regulation on a global scale.
According to the Commission, his new position will involve supporting governments, regulators and organizations that establish or refine gambling regulatory frameworks in various jurisdictions.
The move reflects growing international demand for regulatory expertise as more countries develop legal gambling markets and update their oversight models. Having helped implement some of the UK’s most significant gambling reforms in recent years, Miller will now take that experience into an advisory role focused on supporting regulatory developments around the world.
