Former CFO and Interim Chief Secures Unanimous Board Approval to Lead Next Phase of Corporate Strategy
UK gaming and hospitality giant The Rank Group plc has announced the permanent appointment of Richard Harris as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Harris, who has spent the last four years as a core fixture of the group’s executive leadership team, transitions into the permanent role after managing the business as Interim CEO since January 2026.
The announcement confirms that his stable management of the company over the last six months in an interim capacity proved to the board that he is uniquely qualified to steer Rank as it enters its next phase of corporate growth.
Navigating the Interim Period and Reaching Profitability Targets
The decision to solidify Harris’ role follows an exhaustive executive search process that attracted highly qualified applicants from across the gambling and leisure sectors. Ultimately, the board determined that Harris’ existing deep understanding of the company’s financial mechanics and business model made him the outstanding choice to ensure strategic continuity.
John Ott, Chair of The Rank Group plc, commented on the appointment and outlined the company’s financial benchmarks:
“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.”
Evolving Long-Term Corporate Strategy
Harris’ long tenure with the group provides a stable foundation as the company updates its long-term market strategy to meet evolving regulatory conditions and shifting consumer habits in the United Kingdom. Prior to his six-month interim management stint, he managed the operator’s financial planning, investment strategies, and compliance reporting as Chief Financial Officer.
Reflecting on his permanent appointment, Richard Harris said:
“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.”
