Ladbrokes announced today that Sir Ian Robinson, chairman for eight years, has notified the company that he will be stepping down after its annual general meeting, which is set for May 15, 2009.
On Jan. 1, the company said, Peter Erskine, former chief executive of O2 and board member of Telefónica S.A., will join the board as a non-executive director. After Sir Ian steps down, Mr. Erskine will replace him as chairman in mid-2009.
During Sir Ian’s tenure at Ladbrokes, the company said it achieved a significant increase in gross win and also extended its retail presence to Italy and Spain.
”On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Sir Ian for his valuable contribution over the past eight years,” said Christopher Bell, chief executive of Ladbrokes. “Peter Erskine's extensive international marketing background and experience of building brand-led businesses will be a big plus for the company.”