Shannon resigns as Entain boss

Entain's New Zealand and Australia boss Dean Shannon is stepping down.

He will depart the company by June 30 and will be replaced in the interim by former Tabcorp executive Andrew Vouris.

Shannon says the decision to leave was to allow the business to enter a new phase, declaring "it was the right time for change."

In 2023, with Shannon at the helm, Entain began a 25 year strategic arrangement with the TAB to run its business in this country. Last year it added betcha to its portfolio.

"We acknowledge the resignation of Dean Shannon with both gratitude and respect," says Harness Racing New Zealand Chief Executive Brad Steele.

"Dean’s leadership has played a pivotal role in navigating New Zealand racing through a time of transformation and uncertainty. His vision and strategic focus helped lay the foundations for a modernised wagering landscape, and it's no coincidence that New Zealand is now one of the few countries in the world showing positive wagering results."

Shannon has been with Entain since 2019 and as well as shaking up the business on this side of the Tasman he helped build it into one of Australia's largest online bookmakers. It had almost 2 million customers last year with a market share of 17 per cent.

A highly popular figure, Shannon leaves Entain following the recent departures of fellow executives Lachlan Fitt and Cameron Rodger.

He is also a huge supporter of harness racing in this country. Among the many horses he owns under his Montana Park banner are the likes of glamour pacers Merlin and Sooner The Bettor.  

"Dean’s contribution, especially in aligning innovation and a growth mindset has left a lasting mark on the industry," says Steele, "As we look ahead, we do so from a position of renewed strength thanks in no small part to the groundwork he helped establish. We wish him every success in his future endeavours."

Entain has already started the process to find a new CEO.