Stella David has been officially appointed as Entain’s permanent CEO, stepping into the role with immediate effect. This marks her third time holding the top position at the gaming giant, but the first on a full-time basis. Her appointment follows a period of interim leadership after Gavin Isaacs stepped down in February.
David had previously stepped in as interim CEO twice — first after Jette Nygaard-Andersen’s departure in 2023 and again earlier this year. Until now, she also served as chair of the board, a role she relinquished to take over CEO duties permanently.
Stella David’s Appointment Brings Leadership Continuity to Entain
Entain confirmed David’s appointment in a formal statement, emphasizing her leadership experience and strategic insight. Having joined Entain’s board as a non-executive director in March 2021, David became chair in April 2024 before transitioning to interim CEO shortly thereafter. 
“Entain has a clear strategy and we are making great strides in strengthening our operational capabilities,” said David. “Having taken the time to reflect, I am hugely excited to be leading the business going forward as Entain CEO as we accelerate our journey of improvement. Entain is a great business with significant potential. I am confident in its ability to deliver further success in the future.”
Board Welcomes Stella David’s Leadership
Pierre Bouchut, who assumed the interim chairman role after David transitioned to interim CEO, welcomed the news.
“The board is delighted to have appointed Stella as CEO,” he said. “She is an accomplished and commercial business leader with a long track record of success across multiple industries. Stella has played a pivotal role in shaping, implementing and executing the ongoing delivery of Entain’s strategy to drive value for our shareholders. She is highly regarded by our stakeholders. Her appointment provides consistency and stability as the business pursues its many growth opportunities.”
In addition to her responsibilities at Entain, David also chairs Norwegian Cruise Lines and has held executive and board-level positions at companies including Bacardi, William Grant & Sons, Nationwide Building Society, and Domino’s. Her experience spans industries, offering Entain a seasoned leader with a broad strategic view.
Her appointment coincides with Entain’s Q1 trading update, which reported a 9% rise in net gaming revenue, driven by strong performances across its online offerings and BetMGM joint venture.
