After an eight-month vacancy, William Hill has finally filled its chief executive position with Ralph Topping, 56, who has been with the company since the age of 21 when he worked behind the counter of a shop in Glasgow.
The internal promotion has raised plenty of concerns.
“Whilst not wanting to pre-empt or prejudge Ralph, it is hardly impressive that the process has taken so long," Landsbanki analyst Mark Reed told the Financial Times. "The internal appointment does not give us confidence that William Hill is looking aggressively at new markets, new technologies and broadening the investor base.”
Will Hill Chairman Charles Scott dismisses concerns. “We’ve been fortunate enough to take our time and do a thorough search,” he said. “I called two people this morning to thank them for their interest in the job ... They couldn’t measure up to Ralph.”
Topping worked in betting shops until the age of 35. From there he ascended to human resources, to Scottish regional manager, to Internet director, to retail operations director. Last year he joined the board of directors.