Vidler is stepping down as CEO next month, with former evoke executive Phil Walker stepping in as interim CEO
UK National Lottery operator Allwyn Entertainment has appointed Phil Walker as interim CEO to replace Andria Vidler, who is stepping down early next month.
Vidler is leaving Allwyn after leading the delivery of the biggest transformation of The National Lottery since the company was awarded the Fourth National Lottery licence in September 2023.
This included significant technology and infrastructure updates for the lottery’s 43,500 retail partners, as well as a major upgrade to its website and app. The lottery has also welcomed 1 million new active digital users, relaunched New Lotto, introduced Powerball to the UK, and launched new online and scratchcard games.
Following the completion of these transition milestones, Vidler and Allwyn UK chairman Justin King have agreed that this is the right moment for her to step down.
“Since Andria joined us, she has led from the front through an intense period of change, helping to complete the much-needed and long-overdue transformation of The National Lottery,” said King. “With the major transition milestones delivered, now is the right time to look to the future and build on the solid foundations that have been laid to create a strong platform for future growth. We are pleased to welcome Phil as interim CEO as we continue to modernise and strengthen The National Lottery for players, retailers and Good Causes.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Andria for leading this transformation with drive, focus and commitment, and I wish her every future success.”
Vidler will be replaced on an interim basis on 7 September by Walker, who previously served in a number of roles at evoke and William Hill, including UK & Ireland managing director, online managing director and chief commercial officer.
Allwyn said that Walker’s appointment will ensure an orderly transition and continued focus on growth, while a search is undertaken for a permanent successor.
Commenting on his appointment, Walker said: “I am excited and proud to be taking up the baton from Andria and joining such a vital national institution at this important stage of its growth journey. As a long-standing National Lottery player, I know first-hand the difference it makes to communities across the UK and this is a huge part of what attracted me to the role. It will be a real honour to help build on the progress already made.”
Vidler will remain in an advisory capacity in a transition period to support Walker and King through to the end of October.
“It has been a huge privilege to lead Allwyn UK through such an important period for The National Lottery,” said Vidler. “The last three years have required enormous focus and commitment from colleagues right across the business, and I am proud of what we have delivered together. Above all, I am proud that this work has helped strengthen The National Lottery’s ability to raise vital funds for Good Causes across the UK.
“But transforming The National Lottery is a marathon, not a sprint, and with the major transition now complete, and The National Lottery in a stronger position to keep delivering for the nation, this feels like the right moment for me to pass on the baton. I wish Justin, Phil and everyone at Allwyn the very best for the future – and look forward to becoming a player again myself.”
To date, Allwyn UK has invested £450 million in The National Lottery transformation.