Richard Harris becomes CEO of Rank Group after serving as interim chief executive since January 2026
Rank Group has moved from interim leadership to a permanent appointment as it continues work on its medium-term profit target and longer-term strategy.
The Board of The Rank Group Plc has appointed Richard Harris as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Harris had served as Interim CEO since 30 January 2026.
The appointment follows an executive search process overseen by the Group’s Nominations Committee, chaired by John Ott. The process considered internal and external candidates and was supported by MWM Consulting, an independent executive search firm.
Harris joined the Rank Board as Chief Financial Officer in May 2022. The company said he brings deep knowledge of the business, a track record in driving performance and the strategic leadership needed to maximise shareholder returns.
Before joining Rank, Harris held senior leadership roles in consumer-facing businesses including Marks & Spencer plc, Foxtons plc and Laird plc.
Rank said Harris’ management of the business during his six months as interim CEO showed that he is well placed to lead the Group into its next stage of development.
John H. Ott, Chair of The Rank Group Plc
“I am delighted to confirm Richard’s appointment as CEO of The Rank Group. Following a thorough recruitment process which identified a strong field of candidates, the Board unanimously agreed that Richard was the outstanding choice.
“I am pleased that he has agreed to lead Rank as it continues to progress the delivery of the medium-term objective of generating at least £100m operating profit and the development of the longer-term strategy.”
Harris said Rank has a strong portfolio of brands and clear momentum from its recent operational progress.
Richard Harris, Chief Executive Officer of The Rank Group Plc
“Rank is an industry-leading business with a strong portfolio of brands which are synonymous with the UK gaming industry. I am proud of what Rank has achieved during my tenure as CFO, and I look forward to building on this momentum as we continue to drive growth and evolve the Group’s strategy.
“I’d like to thank all my colleagues for their commitment and support over the last four years and look forward to an exciting future as CEO of the Rank Group.”
The appointment comes during a period of leadership change at Rank. John Ott became Chair in November 2025, while Harris stepped in as Interim CEO after John O’Reilly’s departure at the end of January. Industry reporting has also pointed to recent senior changes, including Jenny Blogg joining as Chief Commercial Officer and Cliff Baty being appointed Interim CFO.
Rank’s main brands include Grosvenor Casinos, Mecca Bingo and Enracha. The Group also operates digital gaming brands, giving Harris a portfolio that spans land-based venues, bingo, casinos and online gaming.
For Rank, the permanent appointment provides continuity at a time when the business is focused on growth, operational performance and its target of at least £100m in operating profit over the medium term.
For the UK gambling sector, the move is another senior leadership change at a major listed operator as companies adapt to cost pressure, tax changes, regulatory reform and the need to balance land-based recovery with digital growth.
