NEW CHIEF FOR WILL HILL

22 February 2008

Baptism of fire for group veteran, and an intention to grow the online business


After a five month hunt the major British gambling group William Hill plc has found the right man to lead it, and he comes from within its own ranks.

Ralph Topping (56) joined the group in 1973 and was most recently its group director for UK operations. He was appointed to the board of directors last year and has experience in the retail and internet activities of the group.

Announcing Topping's appointment as CEO of one of Britains mainstay gambling companies, chairman Charles Scott said Topping's appointment was "first class" and that William Hill would benefit from his "deep knowledge" following 35 years in the industry.

Scott took the opportunity to announce that following the appointment he would withdraw from his executive role. Scott assumed the role of executive chairman when former CEO David Harding stepped down last September, saying he wanted to spend more time with his young son.

Topping said he was ready to face the challenges that came from new regulation in the industry. He also underlined the online business as an area to be further developed.

He added: "I look forward to leading the company as chief executive, and to working with the board and management team. We will build on the company's successes and drive the company forward."

The City appeared to welcome the appointment with a raised share price. Topping faces some immediate tough challenges with a poor Will Hill online performance last year, GBP 2.1 million litigation from a problem gambler, negative sentiment on the industry by Investec analysts and waves emanating from the British government regarding the popularity of FOBT machines in industry shops to name a few.

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