Key points:
- Mark Rutherford appointed as CEO after 15 years of experience within the GSC
- New leadership focuses on strengthening financial crime prevention and regulatory oversight
- The GSC will play an important role in the development of Digital Isle of Man’s upcoming eGaming Strategy
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) has appointed Mark Rutherford as its new CEO. Rutherford, who brings 15 years of experience within the GSC, will oversee the regulation of both gambling and medicinal cannabis sectors on the island.
In his new role, Rutherford will focus on trying to strengthen the organisation's regulatory approach – particularly in combating financial crime and addressing emerging market risks.
Rutherford’s extensive experience includes his position as Director of Policy and Legislation at the GSC and previous service in the Isle of Man’s Income Tax Division.
Good to know: Rutherford has outlined a reform program aimed at reinforcing the GSC's supervisory powers within the gambling sector; his agenda includes expanding international cooperation and enhancing domestic inter-agency collaboration to better detect and disrupt criminal activity
Digital Isle of Man, the Department for Enterprise Executive Agency, has welcomed the appointment, with CEO Lyle Wraxall stating: “The Isle of Man’s eGaming sector has experienced remarkable growth over the past 25 years, becoming home to a thriving, skilled community. A key driver of this success is the global reputation the GSC has built, positioning the Island as a leading jurisdiction for credible gambling licensing and protection.
“Mark’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment. Under his leadership, we are confident the GSC will further enhance the Island’s reputation as a trusted, forward-thinking jurisdiction for eGaming and related industries.”
Rutherford also commented on his own appointment, noting: “I am grateful to the GSC Board for their confidence in me as CEO. There is an important opportunity to strengthen the Isle of Man’s defences against financial crime and I am embarking on an ambitious programme of reform to reinforce the powers we have to supervise and regulate the gambling sector.
“It is imperative that we continue to review and adapt our approach to stay aligned with evolving challenges, including the emerging risks and typologies arising from particular markets. I shall be examining those threats closely to ensure that we are alert to them and manage the risk.”
The appointment follows recent regulatory actions by the GSC, including a significant civil penalty against BMO Manx in December 2024 for AML/CFT failures.
