Etches will succeed Geoffrey Godbold who after two years with the charity, will be stepping down on September 9 2011. Etches is expected to work alongside Godbold to ensure a smooth handover of executive responsibilities prior to Godbold’s departure. Chairman Neil Goulden credited Godbold for his support and help in establishing GREaT and achieving its £5million fundraising target in 2009/10 and 2010/11.
Over the course of the past seven years, Etches has run his own consultancy business and is currently studying for a PhD in Public Policy and Casino Gaming.
“I have known Geoffrey for a number of years, both as Director of GREaT and before that as Chief Executive of GamCare,” said GREaT chairman Neil Goulden in the release. “He is a man of great stature, ability and above all else integrity.
When speaking about Geoffrey Godbold’s replacement, Goulden added: “GREaT is delighted to have secured Marc’s services as Chief Executive in succession to Geoffrey Godbold. His experience, stature and wide contacts in the gambling industry will undoubtedly add a new impetus to GREaT’s fundraising activities.”