The trade association representing licensed gambling operators in Gibraltar, the Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association (GBGA), has announced changes to its senior-level team. The Association’s chairman, Nigel Birrell, pointed out that the Association has been going through a transition period. Moreover, the chairman revealed that GBGA’s CEO, Paul Foster, has taken the decision to resign from his role.

Birrell explained that the decision comes at a time when Foster plans to pursue other business ventures. Besides Foster’s resignation, the chairman confirmed that Merel Swarts is also resigning from her role with the Association. Both Foster and Swarts played important roles in the administration and operation of the GBGA, confirmed Birrell.

The chairman acknowledged that Foster was a part of the Association for five years. During his tenure, the GBGA grew and was able to overcome different challenges. Speaking about Swarts and Foster, Birrell thanked them for their dedication, hard work and the important role they played over the last few years.

“We would like to say thank you to Paul for all his hard work over the past five years and the best of luck with his future endeavors. Merel Swarts will also be leaving the GBGA as she continues to provide her support to Paul.  Merel has played a pivotal role in all the operations and administration work that the GBGA has carried out over the past few years and we would like to thank Merel and wish her well.“

Nigel Birrell, chairman of the GBGA

GBGA Creates New Secretary General Role

The role of CEO will be replaced with the newly created role of secretary general, explained Birrell. Nicholas Macias, who previously held the role of GBGA’s chief operations officer, will now return to the Association and take the newly created secretary general role. In his new position, Macias will oversee strategic processes as he brings extensive experience within the gambling vertical in Gibraltar.

Throughout his professional experience, he held different senior-level roles related to compliance. The GBGA’s chairman welcomed Macias to the company’s team of experts. He added: “We wish Nicky the very best of luck in this new position and look forward to working with him over the coming years.”

In his new role, Macias will collaborate with the Association’s dream team, Angela Almeida and Bua Malamalatabua. The duo played an important role with GBGA’s website and social media channels and will continue to leverage their expertise while at the same time collaborating with the new secretary general.

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The company is experiencing significant hardships after losing its New South Wales and Queensland licenses, owing hundreds of millions in fines and facing several class action lawsuits. Foster’s appointment is part of an ongoing process to remedy the company’s shortcomings, ensure compliance and contest unjust allegations. The new chairman remains optimistic regarding the company’s future as he helps foster a new chapter for the group.

The Operator Is Scrambling to Reform

The past year has not been kind to the once-leading Australian casino operator. A 2021 investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and 60 Minutes revealed severe AML failings and possible ties to terrorist organizations. An official probe soon followed, confirming that The Star had severely and systematically violated numerous regulations. An apathetic response only worsened the situation, drawing the ire of authorities across Australia.

The Star faces up to $1 billion in fines and is engaged in several class action lawsuits. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) relentlessly pursues the operator’s former and current directors and executives. Furthermore, losing the NSW and Queensland licenses has severely impacted the operator’s bottom line. The ongoing turmoil has prompted The Star to elevate new, controversy-free talent to its management team.

Foster Has Experience Salvaging Struggling Enterprises

David Foster’s appointment as chairman has him replace Benjamin Heap, who is facing legal action. Heap is the last active director or executive involved in the proceedings, so his departure will hopefully signal a fresh start for the embattled operator. The former chairman was confident that his successor would help restore The Star’s damaged reputation.

I have every confidence The Star will be a powerhouse of the Australian tourism and entertainment sectors for decades to come.

Benjamin Heap, former chairman of Star Entertainment 

As chairman, Foster will be directly involved in remedying the operator’s shortcomings, hopefully restoring at least a part of its previous market position. He thanked Heap for spearheading the arduous rejuvenation process and promised to aid the renewed board of directors in the company’s journey back toward compliance.

I’m delighted to assume the role of chairman as we continue with an unwavering focus on earning back the trust of the community.

 David Foster, chairman of Star Entertainment 

Foster’s wealth of experience will be invaluable for the company’s remedial efforts. His career of over 25 years in the financial services sector saw him take the reins of Suncorp Bank, salvaging it from the consequences of the global financial crisis and steering it back into stability. Such experience is just what The Star needs to turn things around and recapture its former glory.

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