The candidacy is subject to the approval of the shareholders’ general meeting of the company, which will take place on 7 February; during the meeting, the group will also be resolving the construction of its Board of Directors.

In his new role, Bell will be using his senior Board skills as well as his knowledge and experience in the gambling and sports betting industry.

For almost 20 years, Bell has served at Hilton Group/Ladbrokes, a company which he joined in 1991, becoming part of its Board of Directors (from 2001 to 2006) and as the CEO of Ladbrokes, where he performed until 2010.

Since 2009, Bell had also held other senior non-executive roles, such as Chairman of Game Group and Technfinancials, Senior Independent Director of Quintain Estates and Development, Spirit Pub Company and Gaming Realms.

Bell commented: “Codere has demonstrated over the past 40 years its fundamental strength, versatility and leadership. It is exciting to be a part of this project and promote this new stage that the company has initiated, in its way back to a growth path and consolidation as a leading multinational in the private gambling industry.

“I am truly honoured for the trust placed in me and committed to the creation of value after this difficult period. The company has a management team and talent that will undoubtedly encourage its promising potential.”