IAGR names Kevin Mullally as its first CEO
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- The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) announced a new role of chief executive officer for the first time, appointing Kevin Mullally to lead the organisation.
- Mullally brings extensive regulatory experience, including serving as the inaugural CEO of the UAE’s General Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
- IAGR said Mullally’s appointment reflects the organisation’s continued international growth.
The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) announced on 17 February 2026 the appointment of Kevin Mullally as its inaugural chief executive officer.
The newly created role is intended to strengthen IAGR’s operational capacity and elevate its presence within the global gaming governance community.
IAGR, formally incorporated in 2010, serves as an international forum for gaming regulatory authorities. Its work spans jurisdictions across the world, with a focus on cross-border collaboration on issues including illegal gambling, match-fixing, and other integrity risks requiring coordinated regulatory responses.
A unanimous board in its decision
“Kevin brings an extraordinary depth of regulatory experience and a global perspective that aligns perfectly with IAGR’s mission. The Board was unanimous in its excitement about bringing on a leader with Kevin’s background to guide IAGR in this newly-created CEO role.” said Ben Haden, IAGR President.
Haden also serves as Director of Research at the UK Gambling Commission.
“His experience in regulatory governance, gaming industry technology, institutional leadership, and international collaboration will be invaluable as IAGR continues to strengthen its global role and support regulators facing complex cross-jurisdictional challenges,” Haden added.
Mullally’s career in gaming regulation spans decades. He previously served as long-time general counsel at Gaming Laboratories International (GLI), a globally recognised testing laboratory.
In 2023, he was appointed as the first chief executive of the UAE‘s General Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), overseeing the launch of the country’s regulated gambling framework. He resigned with immediate effect in early November 2025.
Strategic priorities and expanding agenda
Under Mullally’s leadership, IAGR said it will concentrate on promoting regulatory innovation and the responsible adoption of new technologies.
The organisation aims to improve oversight practices, enhance data-driven decision-making, and expand its education, research, and professional development programmes.
IAGR also said Mullally will work to strengthen the organisation’s role in fast-growing and rapidly evolving markets. That priority is expected to feature prominently at IAGR’s annual conference in Lima, Peru, from 19–22 October 2026.
“IAGR’s strength lies in its members and their willingness to work together across jurisdictions. My focus is on supporting regulators by expanding collaboration, sharing practical solutions and ensuring IAGR remains at the forefront of addressing the most critical regulatory issues worldwide.” said Kevin Mullally, CEO, IAGR.
Structure and governance
IAGR operates under a member-led governance structure, with a rotating president and a board of trustees drawn from multiple jurisdictions, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Botswana, among others.
The appointment arrives at a defining moment for global gaming regulation. Emerging markets, digital product evolution, and the proliferation of unlicensed platforms are placing new demands on regulatory bodies.
A dedicated chief executive gives IAGR continuity and strategic direction — and a stronger foundation to serve as a meaningful convener for its member jurisdictions in the years ahead.
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