Key Moments:
- Chris Pond has replaced Jenny Watson CBE as chair of Great Britain’s self-exclusion initiative, The GamStop Group.
- Pond emphasized GamStop’s unique position to influence the national effort to address gambling harms.
- Pond indicated new opportunities for data sharing, early intervention, and enhanced collaboration to promote responsible gambling.
Leadership Transition at GamStop
Chris Pond has assumed the role of chair at The GamStop Group, Great Britain’s self-exclusion scheme. He succeeds Jenny Watson CBE, who spent seven years guiding the organization and was credited by Pond for providing “a strong foundation and clear purpose.”
Pond Highlights Strategic Priorities
Pond stressed the potential for The GamStop Group to significantly influence the national strategy to mitigate gambling-related harm. He outlined the group’s capability to deliver vital data and insights to support research and policy development, as well as to engage in collaborative prevention measures that align with national goals.
Pond’s Background and Forward Vision
In addition to his new appointment, Pond continues to chair the money and mental health advisory board and the financial services consumer panel at the Financial Conduct Authority. His experience also includes leading the Financial Inclusion Commission, holding CEO roles in two national charities, and serving as a work and pensions minister during his eight years as a Member of Parliament.
Pond noted, “There is scope for data sharing and early intervention, where financial behaviour may signal risk; embedding self-exclusion tools into banking apps and platforms; and joint awareness campaigns to promote responsible gambling and financial wellbeing.”
| Role | Organization | Tenure/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chair | The GamStop Group | Current |
| Chair | Money and Mental Health Advisory Board | Current |
| Chair | Financial Services Consumer Panel at FCA | Current |
| Chair | Financial Inclusion Commission | Past |
| CEO | Two National Charities | Past |
| Minister for Work and Pensions | Member of Parliament | Eight years |
- Author
Daniel Williams
