The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has named its first-ever CEO, a move it said reflects its continued growth and expanding global engagement in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
The IAGR has entrusted Kevin Mullally with the role, the senior gaming executive and attorney who most recently served as CEO of the United Arab Emirates General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), overseeing the development of the nation’s expansion into regulated gambling, including the creation and implementation of a national regulatory framework for emerging gaming and the launch of the UAE Lottery.
Mullally also spent 17 years with Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) and was the Executive Director of the Missouri Gaming Commission from 2000 until 2006.
In his role as CEO of IAGR, Mullally will lead the organization’s mission to promote effective regulation through international cooperation, education, research and the responsible adoption of new technologies. He will work closely with regulators from jurisdictions around the world to address challenges such as illegal gambling, integrity risks, regulatory efficiency and evolving market structures.
Mullally a unanimous choice
The IAGR noted that Mullally has more than three decades of experience in gaming regulation, governance and market development. As well as his previous work as a senior leader within public-sector gaming authorities, he has a history of serving as an executive advisor to support governments and regulatory institutions. He left the UAE GCGRA in November, citing a desire to return to Kansas City to spend more time with his family.
The IAGR said that Mullally’s mix of experience directly supports the association’s mission to promote effective regulation in the public interest and to strengthen cooperation among regulators globally. IAGR President Ben Haden said in a press release that the board was “unanimous” in its approval of Mullally as CEO.
“Kevin brings an extraordinary depth of regulatory experience and a global perspective that aligns perfectly with IAGR’s mission,” added Haden. “The Board was unanimous in its excitement about bringing on a leader with Kevin’s background to guide IAGR in this newly created Chief Executive Officer role. His experience in regulatory governance, gaming industry technology, institutional leadership and international collaboration will be invaluable as IAGR continues to strengthen its global role and support regulators facing complex cross-jurisdictional challenges.’
The IAGR will maintain its member-led governance, with strategic direction set by the board of trustees. Mullally will spearhead the execution of the association’s board-approved strategy, strengthening operational coordination across member organizations and supporting regulators across the world. A key focus will be strengthening IAGR’s role as what the association called “a global convener,” particularly in markets experiencing rapid growth and regulatory evolution.
“IAGR’s strength lies in its members and their willingness to work together across jurisdictions,” said Mullally. “My focus is on supporting regulators by expanding collaboration, sharing practical solutions, and ensuring IAGR remains at the forefront of addressing the most critical regulatory issues worldwide. IAGR’s role is to bring regulators together to build effective, collaborative, and future-focused regulatory models.”
