Former AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan has today been unveiled as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tabcorp, beginning August 5, 2024.
Ahead of the necessary regulatory approvals, McLachlan will act in an observer capacity, with Bruce Akhurst continuing to act as Executive Chairman.
Akhurst said McLachlan had the right attributes to accelerate growth at Tabcorp, with a proven track record and deep knowledge of the industry.
“Gill needs no introduction – he is recognised as one of Australia’s leading CEOs and securing Gill is a great vote of confidence for Tabcorp’s future,” he said.
“We’ve laid strong foundations and Gill brings a growth mindset and the capability to capitalise on the opportunities ahead of us.
“Gill has a deep understanding of sport, racing and wagering, combined with significant acumen which was highlighted in the substantial growth of AFL revenues under his leadership.
“Importantly for us, Gill brings an added dimension of having been responsible for some of the most significant media rights deals in Australian sports history and we’re excited about the potential growth opportunities for our wagering and media business under his leadership.”
Mr McLachlan, who was the preferred candidate for chair Racing Victoria’s board until the opportunity to lead Tabcorp arose, said he was focused on accelerating Tabcorp’s growth.
“Tabcorp is a wagering, broadcast and integrity services business and the challenges of growing it are appealing,” he said.
“It’s about creating entertainment for our customers in a safe way and providing a unique customer omni-channel entertainment offering across digital, retail and the media business.
“Tabcorp is a proudly Australian company that contributed $1.1 billion to the racing industry last year and continues to be one of the racing industry’s biggest partners, as well as the wagering licensee in all states, except for WA. This is a really important component of my decision. There are enormous opportunities ahead and I’m looking forward to driving the sport category among other things.
“Tabcorp is part way through its transformation journey and I’m looking forward to working with the leadership team to accelerate and deliver on the growth opportunities.”
Originally published as Gillon McLachlan formally appointed as Tabcorp Managing Director and CEO