The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has named Kristy Caldwell as the interim chair of its Industry Forum, the advisory body created to strengthen communication between the regulator and licensed operators. Caldwell, a long‑standing forum member, will serve in the role while the UKGC completes its search for a permanent successor to former chair Nick Rust, whose term ended in November 2025.
Caldwell Steps In as Forum Enters New Phase
Established three years ago, the Industry Forum provides the UKGC with direct insight from professionals working across the regulated gambling sector. Its members offer practical perspectives on regulatory proposals, helping the Commission remain informed, balanced, and aligned with industry realities.
Caldwell joined the forum in March 2024 and is widely regarded as a seasoned compliance specialist. She currently leads Betsmart Consulting, which advises both online and land‑based operators—as well as local authorities—on regulatory best practices.
In announcing her appointment, the UKGC highlighted Caldwell’s experience and her longstanding contributions to the forum’s work.
Caldwell Pledges to Strengthen Dialogue With Industry
Caldwell said she was “delighted” to take on the interim role and emphasized her commitment to fostering constructive engagement between the regulator and licensees.
She stressed the importance of open communication, noting that the sector can only progress by learning from missteps and maintaining ongoing dialogue.
“We may not get it right every time, but the important thing is we learn from our mistakes, we keep talking and we keep moving forwards,”
— Kristy Caldwell, Interim Chair, Industry Forum
UKGC Criticizes Social Media Platforms Over Illegal Gambling Ads
Separately, UKGC executive director Tim Miller used a speech at ICE Barcelona to criticize major social media companies for failing to prevent illegal offshore gambling operators from targeting UK consumers.
Miller said many of these unlicensed operators deliberately market to British users and even promote their lack of GamStop coverage as a selling point—putting vulnerable players at risk.
While platforms do remove ads when flagged, Miller argued that tech companies are shifting the burden of detection onto the regulator. He rejected claims that they lack the capability to proactively block illegal gambling promotions, accusing them of “trying to have it both ways” by maintaining ties with the regulated sector while still profiting from illicit advertisers.
