Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes and Coral, has announced Stella David as its permanent CEO with immediate effect.
David, who has twice served as interim CEO, takes on the role full-time as the company aims to 'stabilise leadership and accelerate strategic growth.'
Pierre Bouchut, interim chair of the global sports betting and gaming group, stated that David's appointment brings continuity during a significant opportunity period for the business, as reported by .
"Stella is an accomplished and commercial business leader with a long track record of success across multiple industries," said Bouchut.
"Her appointment provides consistency and stability as the business pursues its many growth opportunities."
David initially joined Entain's board as a non-executive director in March 2021 and briefly served as chair in April 2024.
She assumed the role of interim CEO following Gavin Isaacs's departure in February – her second temporary term after Jette Nygaards's resignation in 2023.
"Having taken the time to reflect, I am hugely excited to be leading the business going forward as Entain's CEO," she expressed.
Alongside this announcement, Entain also released a trading update, reporting a nine per cent increase in net gaming revenue, driven by online growth and performance in its BetMGM joint venture.
AJ Bell's Russ Mould noted: "Stella David was the obvious candidate...investors might view her as a safe pair of hands, which might not be a bad thing for Entain given it is no stranger to significant fines and regulatory action."
The move comes as shareholders such as Eminence Capital and Corvex Management urge the company to deliver improved performance and increased value.
Entain's share price has seen challenges in recent years, despite the company's expansion into new global markets.
