Appointment of Eugene Delaney as B2B CCO and Promotion of Paddy Desmond to Group COO Splits Focus Between B2B and B2C Operations
UK Tote Group has announced key changes to its executive leadership team to support the ongoing expansion of its domestic and international pari-mutuel pool operations. The business has appointed industry veteran Eugene Delaney as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), B2B, while simultaneously promoting Paddy Desmond to the position of Group Chief Operating Officer (COO).
The corporate restructuring establishes dedicated executive leadership across both sides of the business. This ensures focused management over consumer-facing (B2C) products and corporate business-to-business (B2B) distribution channels as the firm enters its next growth cycle.
Split Executive Tracks: Portfolios and Professional Backgrounds
I. Eugene Delaney – Chief Commercial Officer, B2B
Eugene Delaney enters his role as CCO to take direct charge of the Tote’s B2B operations across its domestic and international business pillars. He brings over 20 years of senior commercial and operational experience across the sports, media, horseracing, and B2B betting data sectors.
Delaney’s previous executive positions include:
- Managing Director of Podium: PA Media Group
- B2B Director: Spotlight Sports Group
- Head of B2B: Racing Post
- Commercial Manager: Paddy Power
In his new role, Delaney will focus on scaling the Tote’s integration networks with racecourses, digital betting operators, and international pool wagering partners.
II. Paddy Desmond – Group Chief Operating Officer
Paddy Desmond has been promoted to Group COO from his previous position as Chief Revenue Officer. Under this expanded role, Desmond takes over comprehensive operational leadership of the UK Tote Group, managing a portfolio that spans product development, customer experience, marketing, and revenue growth.
Desmond’s career includes senior commercial roles at Paddy Power and Flutter Entertainment, alongside regulatory and governance positions at the British Horseracing Authority (BHA). His dual background balances direct commercial leadership with a thorough understanding of horse racing governance and long-term industry sustainability.
Corporate Perspectives on the Next Stage of Tote Expansion
Alex Frost, Chief Executive Officer of UK Tote Group, emphasized that the leadership additions align with the company’s long-term corporate ambitions:
“These changes to our senior team ensure we have dedicated leadership across both sides of our business. Paddy has an outstanding track record in our consumer business and a deep understanding of racing, and his expanded role reflects the confidence we have in him to lead our growth. Eugene brings outstanding B2B and data expertise that matches the ambition we have for our partnerships and pool businesses. Together they strengthen our leadership team and position us well for the next stage of the Tote’s growth.”
Commenting on his promotion, Paddy Desmond highlighted the positive momentum behind the consumer business:
“This is an exciting time to be leading the Tote’s consumer business. We have a distinctive product, a loyal customer base and real momentum. My focus will be on continuing to improve the experience we offer customers while growing the business responsibly and sustainably.”
Eugene Delaney noted the significant room for further international and domestic development:
“The Tote’s B2B potential, across international pools and the UK, is significant and there is a clear opportunity to build on what has already been achieved over the last eight years. I’m looking forward to working with Alex, Paddy and the wider team to deepen our partnerships, sharpen how we operate and continue building long-term value for our racecourse, operator and international partners.”
