IAGR Names Kevin Mullally as Its First-Ever Chief Executive

The IAGR said the new executive position reflects its growth as a global body and the need to strengthen operational capacity across its membership. While Mullally will lead day-to-day operations, the organisation confirmed it will maintain its member-led governance structure, with strategic direction continuing to rest with its board of trustees.

His responsibilities will include expanding member engagement, building strategic partner relationships, and overseeing organisational operations.

IAGR President Ben Haden expressed strong support for the appointment:

“Kevin brings an extraordinary depth of regulatory experience and a global perspective that aligns perfectly with IAGR’s mission. The board was unanimous in its excitement about bringing on a leader with Kevin’s background to guide IAGR. His understanding of regulatory challenges, governance, global industry and international collaboration will be invaluable as IAGR continues to evolve.”

From the GCGRA to IAGR

Mullally’s appointment comes just weeks after his departure from the UAE’s GCGRA, which he led during its establishment phase from Q3 2023. In that role, he helped build the authority’s regulatory frameworks from the ground up and oversaw the launch of the UAE Lottery — the Emirates’ first licensed gambling operation. Shortly after leaving the GCGRA, Mullally founded Mullally Group, an independent advisory firm supporting governments, regulators, and institutions on regulatory frameworks and governance practices. He will continue to lead that firm as managing director alongside his new IAGR position.

Before joining the GCGRA, Mullally spent more than 17 years at Gaming Laboratories International in various senior roles. He also served as executive director of the Missouri Gaming Commission following a period in its legal department, and earlier in his career held the position of chief of staff for Senator Harry Wiggins in the Missouri Senate.

Mullally outlined his priorities in the new role:

“IAGR’s strength lies in its members and their willingness to work together across jurisdictions. 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.”

GCGRA Charts Its Next Chapter

Following Mullally’s exit from the GCGRA in January, chair Jim Murren assumed the CEO position on an interim basis. The authority has continued to develop the UAE’s emerging gaming market, which permits one licensee per emirate — excluding those observing Sharia Law — with both online casino and sports betting licences available.

In November 2025, Play 971 became the UAE’s first licensed iGaming site, launching in Abu Dhabi and operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC. A number of suppliers have also secured vendor certification in the market, including Sportradar, geolocation provider Xpoint, and Yolo Group’s Hub88 and Live88.

On the land-based side, Wynn Al-Marjan Island in Ras Al-Khaimah holds the UAE’s first commercial gaming licence, issued in October 2024. The integrated resort is scheduled to open in March 2027.

Source: iGaming Business