Richard Harris Steps Into Interim Role As Rank Group CEO Prepares To Exit

Rank Group Plc announced a significant leadership transition on Tuesday, with Chief Executive Officer John O'Reilly set to step down on January 29. Following the CEO's departure, Richard Harris, the company's current Chief Financial Officer, will assume the interim chief executive position beginning January 30.

The London-based gaming service operator has initiated a comprehensive search to recruit a permanent CEO to fill the vacancy. O'Reilly, who has held the chief executive position since April 2018, will remain engaged with the organization through the conclusion of the 2025/26 financial year to facilitate a smooth transition and provide ongoing guidance during the changeover process.

Richard Harris brings substantial experience to his new interim role. He joined Rank's executive leadership in May 2022, taking on the Chief Financial Officer position. Before his tenure at Rank Group, Harris served as Chief Financial Officer at Foxtons Group Plc and held senior financial management roles at both Laird Plc and Marks and Spencer Plc, demonstrating a track record across diverse sectors.

John Ott, Chair of Rank Group plc, praised O'Reilly's contributions, noting his strong operational capabilities and profound knowledge of the gaming and betting sector. "His leadership has positioned Rank favorably for continued growth, and his long-standing industry influence has been instrumental to the company's strategic direction," Ott remarked. The company emphasized that Harris's financial acumen and board experience position him well to guide operations during the search for permanent leadership.