Former Nevada Lt-Governor Brian Krolick appointed IAGR President

The global landscape of gambling regulation is witnessing a significant leadership transition. Brian Krolick, a veteran politician and regulator from Nevada, has been named the new President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR). He takes over from Ben Haden, the Director of Research and Statistics at the British Gambling Commission, marking a transatlantic shift in the organization's steering committee. Krolick brings over three decades of experience in public service and regulatory affairs to the role, positioning the IAGR to address evolving industry challenges with a seasoned hand.

Krolick is a well-known figure in the gambling capital of the world. He has served as a member of the Nevada Gaming Commission since 2023 and was previously the Vice President of the IAGR. His political career is equally distinguished, having served as the State Treasurer of Nevada from 1999 to 2007. Following this, he became the 33rd Lieutenant Governor of Nevada in 2007, a position he held for two terms until 2015. This extensive background in managing state finances and overseeing complex regulatory frameworks is expected to benefit the international regulatory community.

Numbers and facts

The leadership reshuffle at IAGR also includes the promotion of Dave Phillips to the position of Vice President. Phillips, who co-chairs the organization’s Illegal Gambling Working Group, will play a crucial role in advancing the group’s strategic priorities. The transition occurs during a pivotal week for the association, which saw the launch of the inaugural Illegal Gambling Awareness Week. This initiative aims to highlight the risks associated with unlicensed operators and foster international cooperation in enforcement.

“On behalf of our Board and members, I want to thank Ben for his leadership and dedication over the past three years.” - Brian Krolick, President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators

Krolick takes the helm at a time when the US gaming industry faces significant regulatory debates, particularly regarding prediction markets. Authorities in Nevada have shown strong opposition to these markets, and Krolick’s perspective will likely influence how the IAGR navigates such emerging issues. The new president expressed optimism about the progress made in 2026 and set a clear agenda for the upcoming year.

Background

The IAGR serves as a vital platform for regulators to exchange expertise and collaborate on initiatives that cross jurisdictional boundaries. With the addition of Dave Phillips to the leadership team, the organization is doubling down on its commitment to fighting the illegal market. Phillips' deep understanding of regulatory operations is seen as a major asset in protecting consumers worldwide. The collaboration between the President, the Vice President, and CEO Kevin Mullally is intended to turn current momentum into lasting regulatory benefits.

“I look forward to working with Dave, CEO Kevin Mullally, our fellow trustees and members to carry that momentum into 2027 and turn these initiatives into lasting benefits for the regulatory community.” - Brian Krolick, President of the International Association of Gaming Regulators

Why it matters for German players

For players in Germany, the leadership of an organization like the IAGR is relevant because it sets the tone for global consumer protection standards. The German Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) is one of the strictest frameworks in the world, emphasizing player safety through the GGL (Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder). When global bodies like the IAGR prioritize the fight against illegal gambling, it supports the efforts of the GGL to keep the German market clean. Players using GGL-licensed sites benefit from a 1,000 Euro monthly deposit limit and a 1 Euro per spin cap on slots. Stronger international cooperation helps identify and block illegal operators who try to bypass these safety measures, ensuring that German players remain within the protected legal environment of LUGAS and OASIS.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

Casinos operating under a German GGL license stand to gain from Krolick's focus on illegal market awareness. Licensed operators invest heavily in compliance, taxation, and player protection. When unlicensed competitors are allowed to operate without these burdens, it creates an unlevel playing field. The IAGR’s push for better collaboration among regulators can lead to more effective tools for the GGL, such as improved payment blocking and technical measures against offshore sites. A more robust global regulatory environment validates the high standards of the German licensing system and protects the investments of legitimate businesses in the region.