Allwyn UK CEO Andria Vidler has decided to step down from the business.
During her tenure, since Allwyn UK was awarded the fourth National Lottery licence in September 2023 before taking over in February 2024, she had led “the biggest transformation” of the National Lottery since its launch in 1994, the licensed operator said.
It had completed significant technology and infrastructure updates for The National Lottery’s 43,500 retail partners, as well as a major upgrade to its website and app, Allwyn UK added.
It has also welcomed one million new active digital users, relaunched New Lotto, introduced Powerball to the UK, and launched new online and scratchcard games.
Following the completion of these transition milestones under her leadership, Vidler and Allwyn UK chairman Justin King agreed this was the right moment for her to step down.
Former William Hill MD Phil Walker has been appointed interim CEO with effect from 7 September. During his six-year tenure leading the William Hill business in the UK, it delivered significant market share, revenue and profit growth across both its digital and retail channels, Allwyn UK said. He left William Hill in 2024 and has been consulting since then.
Allwyn UK said his expertise would support its focus on digital transformation and the next phase of growth for The National Lottery.
Walker’s appointment would ensure an orderly transition and continued focus on growth while a search was undertaken for a permanent successor, Allwyn added.
Vidler will remain in an advisory capacity in a transition period to support Walker and King through to the end of October.
“It has been a huge privilege to lead Allwyn UK through such an important period for The National Lottery,” said Vidler. “The last three years have required enormous focus and commitment from colleagues right across the business, and I am proud of what we have delivered together. Above all, I am proud that this work has helped strengthen The National Lottery’s ability to raise vital funds for good causes across the UK.
“But transforming The National Lottery is a marathon, not a sprint, and with the major transition now complete, and The National Lottery in a stronger position to keep delivering for the nation, this feels like the right moment for me to pass on the baton. I wish Justin, Phil and everyone at Allwyn the very best for the future – and look forward to becoming a player again myself.”
Walker said: “I am excited and proud to be taking up the baton from Andria and joining such a vital national institution at this important stage of its growth journey. As a long-standing National Lottery player, I know first-hand the difference it makes to communities across the UK and this is a huge part of what attracted me to the role. It will be a real honour to help build on the progress already made.”
King added: “Since Andria joined us, she has led from the front through an intense period of change, helping to complete the much-needed and long-overdue transformation of The National Lottery.
“With the major transition milestones delivered, now is the right time to look to the future and build on the solid foundations that have been laid to create a strong platform for future growth. We are pleased to welcome Phil as interim CEO as we continue to modernise and strengthen The National Lottery for players, retailers and good causes.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Andria for leading this transformation with drive, focus and commitment, and I wish her every future success.”
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