The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) just got a little Australian flair. During the group’s annual meeting, held recently in Jamaica, a new president was introduced to replace the outgoing Trude Felde, senior advisor at the Norwegian Gaming Authority. Paul Newson, a trustee of the New South Wales (NSW) Responsible Gaming Fund, will be taking over as the leader of the global gaming organization.
Newson has a long history in gambling, having previously served as the CEO of Greyhound Racing NSW. In that role, he oversaw an upgrade to the group’s strategy and welfare controls, as well as the creation of new regulatory and commercial activities designed to improve the organization’s governance and accountability. From April 2017 to July of this year, he was also the deputy secretary for Liquor & Gaming NSW after having served in the same role for Liquor, Gaming & Emergency Management NSW.
The executive said of his new appointment, “It’s an honour to be appointed President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators following what’s been a watershed year for the organisation. I’m really looking forward to working with our Board of Trustees, members and industry stakeholders to best position IAGR to advance better regulation globally.”
IAGR’s gathering was held from September 30 to October 3. It saw participation from more than 200 gaming regulators, law experts, advisors and representatives from the gaming industries of over 25 countries – not surprising, given the tropical background in Montego Bay. By the time it wrapped up, over 40 speakers and panelists had appeared before the group, including Paul Curby, the director of Curby Partners, who led a presentation on regulating the regulators.
During his closing remarks, Newson added, “Our impressive lineup of speakers, many internationally renowned, provoked thinking and debate, and sparked conversations that will continue and help advance efficient and collaborative gambling regulation globally. Thank you to our hosts the Betting Gaming & Lotteries Commission and Casino Gaming Commission, Jamaica for staging an outstanding conference and for the immensely warm and vibrant Jamaican hospitality.”
Next year’s meeting will be hosted by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and will be held in Boston, Massachusetts. It may not be the warm waters of the Caribbean, but, entering the fall months, the change of scenery and falling leaves will provide an inviting backdrop.
