Tabcorp to get new CEO, chairman, as David Attenborough, Paula Dwyer flag retirement

Tabcorp is looking for a new CEO to replace David Attenborough, while Paula Dwyer will make way for Steven Gregg as chairman.

Retiring: outgoing Tabcorp CEO David Attenborough. Picture: Stuart McEvoy

Gaming giant Tabcorp is on the hunt for a new chief executive after David Attenborough announced he would step down in the first half of next year, following the company’s merger with Tatts.

The search for a new CEO comes as the company announced that board member Steven Gregg would succeed chairman Paula Dwyer as the company’s chairman when she retires from the board at the end of the year.

“The combination with Tatts is now largely complete and, as such, now is the right time to start the process to appoint the next CEO who can work with the board and management team to take the company forward,” Mr Attenborough said.

“Until then, I am totally committed to steering Tabcorp through the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring that our businesses are best positioned for the future.”

Tabcorp shares were up 5.22 per cent in early trade to $3.63.

Tabcorp merged with Tatts in 2017 in an $11bn deal.

Paula Dwyer will be replaced as chairman by Steven Gregg. Picture: David Geraghty

Ms Dwyer added: “With the integration of Tatts nearing completion, the time is now right for a new chairman to lead the Tabcorp board into the future.

“The appointment of Steven Gregg will provide continuity of leadership and an orderly transition as the company identifies and transitions to a new managing director and CEO.”

Mr Gregg has been on the Tabcorp board since 2012. He has been the chairman of Caltex since 2017 and a director on the board of annuities provider Challenger Limited since 2012.

“I look forward to working with my board colleagues and executive team to realise the opportunities Tabcorp has following the Tabcorp-Tatts combination: to drive shareholder returns and the continued trust of our customers, business partners, employees, governments and the broader community,” Mr Gregg said.