The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) will soon seek a permanent executive director after long-time leader Keith Whyte unexpectedly exited last week.
On Thursday, the NCPG announced Whyte’s departure—effective Jan. 13—in a media release that shocked the US-facing gambling industry. The announcement also introduced Nancy Green as the council’s interim executive director. Most recently, Green, who brings “extensive association, nonprofit leadership, and program experience to her roles,” was the interim ED for the American Sustainable Business Network.
In the release, NCPG board president Susan Sheridan Tucker briefly thanked Whyte for his service.
On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Keith for his leadership and contributions to the organization during his tenure. During this transition, our mission to lead awareness and advocacy efforts to reduce gambling harm remains our top priority, and we are confident in the team we have in place to seamlessly carry out this vital work.
Abrupt departure leaves questions unanswered
During his nearly three decades leading the NCPG’s advocacy, Whyte’s expertise helped transform the problem gambling watchdog into the widely respected organization it is today.
His abrupt exit—without explanation—has the industry wondering what’s up.
As Steve Ruddock noted in his Jan. 20 newsletter, the NCPG release’s lack of details leaves much to the imagination.
And now he’s gone… and with little explanation — Did this have something to do with his December testimony in front of Congress? Was it internal strife at NCPG? Was it the aliens? New Jersey drones? Nobody knows because the NCPG wrongly believes nobody will care.
And:
The announcement caught everyone off-guard, and the press release raises more questions than it answers. The release is dated January 16th but says Whyte’s departure was effective January 13th, and the final line reads, “The Board of Directors will conduct a national search to identify a permanent Executive Director later this year,” suggesting this was not a planned exit.
Ruddock added that despite NCPG’s assurances, the organization’s future without Whyte seems uncertain.
If I’m being totally honest, I don’t see how the NCPG survives this. Keith was the NCPG, and the NCPG was Keith. His departure leaves a huge hole that I don’t know how the organization fills.
And Ruddock wasn’t alone in that take.
On X, responsible gambling consultant Jamie Salsburg opined that the news would seal the NCPG’s eventual fate as “completely irrelevant.” Similarly, and also on X, gaming industry veteran Richard Schuetz said he found the release “amateurish and poorly written.”
Handling suggests contentious split
As Ruddock further pointed out, NCPG’s decision not to include a parting statement from Whyte in the release suggests a “bad breakup.”
Especially considering Green, Whyte’s temporary replacement, had a statement included.
Having guided several organizations through periods of change, I appreciate that maintaining operational excellence and mission focus are paramount during transitions. NCPG’s work in reducing gambling-related harm is too important to pause. The dedicated staff, committed board, and engaged stakeholders will continue driving essential programs and advocacy efforts forward while we chart the organization’s next chapter.
Whyte bids NCPG farewell on LinkedIn, says there’s ‘more to come’
However, Whyte posted a personal statement on LinkedIn. His job title there is now “consultant.”
After more than 26 years as Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling it is time for a new challenge. What an honor It has been to advocate on behalf of problem gamblers and their families for almost three decades.
“Running a nonprofit is one of the most challenging yet rewarding jobs, and one that is impossible to do without the support of great leaders, members and staff. There are far too many to thank here, but I hope you know how deeply I appreciate all the innovative leaders, passionate advocates, dedicated staff, engaged members, generous supporters and friends who have inspired, challenged and helped me on my journey over the years. I will continue to work on responsible gambling and gambling addiction issues and look forward to a time when comprehensive prevention, education, treatment, enforcement, responsible gambling, research and recovery services are available, accessible and affordable for all. Watch this space-lots more to come!”
Echoing the many comments under Whyte’s post, Problem Gambling Network Ohio executive director Derek Longmeier lauded Whyte for his years of advocacy in a separate release.
I want to thank Keith for his skillful leadership and support of PGNO over the years. His dedication and advocacy on the national level to reduce gambling-related harm is an example to us all.
In wrapping his newsletter post, Ruddock noted that NCPG’s leadership shift “could have significant consequences” in the current RG/PG-focused climate.
Bonus contacted the NCPG for clarifications on the split but did not immediately receive an answer.
For now, any consequences and what’s next for Whyte and his former employer remain uncertain.
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