Rank Group plc, a UK leisure and gaming operator known for Mecca bingo halls, has appointed Richard Harris as its permanent chief executive officer. Harris assumes the position with immediate effect, concluding an interim tenure that began on January 30, 2026, after the retirement of long-serving CEO John O'Reilly.
The appointment concludes an executive search overseen by the nominations committee, chaired by John Ott, with support from MWM Consulting. The board unanimously selected Harris, who joined the Rank Group board as chief financial officer in May 2022. Before joining Rank, he held senior positions at Marks & Spencer, Foxtons, and Laird.
The company has not announced plans to recruit a new CFO to replace him.
Strategic Objectives and Financial Outlook
John Ott described the decision as a unanimous choice to lead the company toward its medium-term goal of generating at least £100 million in operating profit. Harris commented on the appointment, noting the strength of the group's brand portfolio and his intention to build on the momentum achieved during his time as CFO.
John O'Reilly served as CEO from May 2018 until his retirement announcement in January. His previous experience includes roles at William Hill and as managing director of GVC’s Coral Interactive. Rank Group reported a strong finish to the FY25/26 period, with like-for-like net gaming revenue reaching £205.4 million in the first quarter of the current year.