The Prize Competition Council (PCC) has its first Executive Director, entrusting former FDJ United figure Tom Banks with the role.
The news comes as the trade association expands its representation of the UK prize competition sector, having grown from eight founding members in June when it was established to 65 members as of today.
Banks will support operators in meeting the requirements of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators and promote standards across the sector.
He will also lead efforts to grow membership and represent the industry in discussions with government, regulators and the media.
Banks brings more than 13 years of experience in public affairs, corporate communications and reputation management.
Earlier in his career, he spent two years as a Communications and Campaign Manager for the Conservative Party, delivering external campaigns in South West London and then West Yorkshire under the government led by David Cameron.
He then spent four years advising Kindred as a consultant at Public First before joining the business in-house, where he spent a further four years. Banks continued at the business following its acquisition by FDJ, becoming Head of External Relations at the firm.
“Millions of people across the UK enter prize draws and competitions each year. The Prize Competition Council has an important role in explaining how the market works, championing responsible operators and making sure the sector’s voice is heard when decisions affecting it are made,” he said.
“My first priority will be listening to members and supporting their work under the DCMS Code. I also want us to make a confident case for the sector by showing the standards responsible operators uphold, explaining how prize competitions work and representing the people who choose to take part.
“That means engaging early and constructively with government, regulators and the media while continuing to raise standards across the market. I’m looking forward to working with George, the board and our members.”
Major step for PCC in embryonic phase
As mentioned above, it comes fourth months after the PCC was established in June.
This was in an attempt to provide a collective voice for the prize competition market as scrutiny of the sector continues.
The PCC’s launch followed 438 reports of suspected illegal lotteries in 2025 by the Gambling Commission, alongside 544 reports of society lotteries presenting themselves as free draws and prize competitions.
Leadership figures from respected organisations in the UK industry were brought together as the PCC composed its inaugural Board of Directors.
George McGregor, who was elected as the Independent Chair of the PCC, said Banks’ experience working with public sector businesses stands him in good stead for his new role.
He added: “The PCC now represents 65 members, and supporting them with the requirements of the DCMS Code is our immediate priority. Tom brings experience of explaining complex regulatory issues to government, regulators and the media across the UK and Europe.
“He understands the scrutiny facing businesses that serve the public and the need to support what they say with evidence. That experience will help PCC represent our members and explain how responsible prize competition operators work.
“I’m very pleased to welcome him as Executive Director.”