William Hill’s Tracey Mooney has been named the 2025 Racing Post / SIS Betting Shop Manager of the Year, securing one of the industry’s most respected accolades and using the moment to highlight the crucial role betting shops play in local communities.
Mooney, Team Leader at the bookmaker’s Prestwick branch and a 13-year veteran of William Hill, emerged victorious from a group of eight national finalists. During her acceptance, she delivered a pointed message to Westminster amid speculation about potential gambling tax increases in the upcoming Budget.
Her call to government was simple: visit betting shops and see their community impact firsthand. “Come and speak to our customers,” she said. “We interact with them, we keep them safe, we see them through great times and hard times. We give them hugs when they need them.” 
Mooney emphasised that betting shops often serve as important social hubs, particularly at a time when mental health issues and social isolation are increasingly visible. “A community where people can come, spend time with no pressure and just be themselves is huge. That has to continue.”
Industry leaders echoed the significance of her win. Leo Walker, Retail Managing Director at William Hill, said: “We’re incredibly proud that Tracey has been crowned this year’s winner. This competition is highly respected across the betting and gaming industry, and bringing home the trophy reinforces the strength of the William Hill brand.
“Reaching the final eight is a huge achievement, so I’d also like to congratulate Peter Wilde and Victoria Nichols for making it this far, along with all of our retail colleagues involved throughout.”
Mooney’s win underscores both her personal dedication and the wider industry debate around the future of retail betting shops and their social value across the UK.
