Key points:
- Former MP Sir Philip Davies appointed Chairman of Star Sports Group, succeeding Russ Wiseman
- Davies brings personal betting industry experience and a parliamentary background to the role
- Founder Ben Keith praised outgoing Chairman Wiseman’s contributions, expressing optimism for the company’s future under Davies' leadership
Star Sports Group has announced the appointment of Sir Philip Davies as its new Chairman, succeeding Russ Wiseman who stepped down for personal reasons.
Davies, a former Member of Parliament for Shipley with nearly two decades of parliamentary experience, will now oversee the company’s strategic direction and continued expansion.
Commenting on the development, Star Sports Founder Ben Keith stated: “I want to thank Russ Wiseman for all the personal and professional support he has provided us over the last two years and totally respect his decision to stand down, wishing him a speedy return to good health. I look forward to continuing mine and Star's effective working relationship with Russ in 2025.
“We are delighted to be announcing Philip as our new Chairman. He has a wealth of experience and is a valuable addition to our senior management team. We look forward to learning from him over the coming years.”
Davies himself added: “I am delighted to be joining Star Sports at such an exciting time in the company’s history. I have been lucky enough to get to know Ben [Keith] over the last few years and I have huge admiration for the business that he has built.
“Not many know that I started my working life in my mother’s betting shop (Marilyn Davies Bookmakers), so the industry is very much in my blood. I’m hugely looking forward to working closely with Ben and his management team to fulfil the group’s growth strategy and commitment to operating responsibly.”
This appointment comes at the end of a busy year for Star Sports, with the company beginning its venture into the Australian market earlier this year after receiving its operational Wagering and Betting Licence for the province of Victoria.
