Entain plc, the global sports betting and gaming group, have announced that Dean Shannon will be stepping down from his role as Entain Australia and New Zealand chief executive, effective June 30, 2025.

The company said in a statement that their Australian and New Zealand businesses are entering a new phase of their development and Shannon has agreed it is time for change at the helm.

This transition coincides with the completion of the AML/CTF Uplift Programme and the introduction of a ‘legislative net’ to support the New Zealand racing and wagering industry. Both are expected to be completed in June, and over the last two years Shannon has been critical to the delivery of both priorities.

Shannon is committed to ensure a transparent and orderly transition to set the business up for long-term success.

“We thank Dean for his significant contribution to Entain, and for managing the Australian and New Zealand businesses,” Entain Group chief executive Stella David said.

“The growth and integration of Neds and Lads into our global portfolio of podium position brands has been a particular highlight and he has more recently delivered what we believe is a market leading compliance programme in Australia.

“As the Australian business enters its next phase, we will continue to demonstrate our commitment to compliance and responsibly deliver great products to our customers.”

Andrew Vouris, who has 17 years of leadership experience in wagering, operations and innovation at some of Australia’s biggest wagering operators, including Tabcorp and Entain, has been appointed interim chief executive.

During his tenure at Tabcorp, Vouris had leadership roles in its multi-billion-dollar wagering and media business. He also played a key role in managing complex regulatory and compliance matters, including the remediation of commercial operations in response to Tabcorp’s AUSTRAC proceedings and direct engagement with the Northern Territory Racing and Wagering Commission.

More recently, Vouris led the global operations of a pioneering esports and wagering platform and worked with private equity backing early-stage ventures in esports.

Entain said a process has commenced to recruit a permanent chief executive.