Allaster Gair confirmed as Bacta’s Director of Communications

UK trade association Bacta has announced the appointment of Allaster Gair to the position of Director of Communications, effective 7th July.

Gair, who replaces Executive Director George McGregor who announced in March that he would be stepping down from Bacta joins from global advisory consultancy the DGA Group where he spent 5-years most recently as Senior Associate.

Looking ahead to driving the trade association’s communications programme he stated: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Bacta at such a pivotal time for the industry. It represents a sector with deep roots in local economies, and I’m looking forward to proactively championing its value and telling its story.”

He noted: “The key challenge is changing outdated perceptions and I’ll be working hard to ensure stakeholders understand the modern, responsible nature of the industry and how it strongly contributes both economically and socially.

“The sector needs to clearly and consistently influence opinion, build trust, and inform policy in what is a complex landscape. I see huge potential to go on the front foot and tell the sector’s positive stories. In particular I’m keen to highlight its beneficial impact, commitment to safer gambling, and its importance to the wider economy.”

Bacta’s outgoing President John Bollom said: “I am delighted to welcome Allaster who was without doubt the stand-out candidate.

“The comms challenges that we face are significant not least combatting the media onslaught that’s being directed at the Adult Gaming Sector and enhancing the ways in which Bacta engages with its members.

“I would like to place on the record my thanks to George McGregor who ends a 21-year association with Bacta.

“His knowledge and experience have been a great asset and he has been a source of wise counsel during what has been an extremely challenging period for the industry.“