Entain, the global sports betting and gaming group, is pleased to announce the appointments of Ed Davis CB, CBE, and Franziska van Almsick to the Group’s charitable trust, the Entain Foundation (“the Entain Foundation”). Ed Davis becomes the Independent Chair while Franziska van Almsick has taken an ambassadorial role in Germany.
Entain launched its Global Foundation in November 2019 to support the Group’s ESG initiatives and donations around the world. The Group is now formalising the Entain Foundation’s structure as a registered charitable trust and has appointed Lt Gen Davis to act as the Chair of its board of councillors.
Lt Gen Davis brings a wealth of international and charitable experience to the Foundation. He most recently served as Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Gibraltar, a position he held from 2016 to 2020. Franziska van Almsick, who will act as an Ambassador for the Entain Foundation, is a ten-time Olympic medallist and former world and European champion swimmer.
As part of its strategy for sustainability and growth Entain has committed £100m through the Entain Foundation over five years to support a range of good causes focusing on:
Responsible gambling, sports integrity and betting and gaming regulation research, education and treatment;
Diversity in technology;
Grass roots, women’s and disability sport;
Projects with a clear link to the local community in Entain’s major office locations and markets.
Commenting on his appointment, Lt Gen Davis said:
“I am delighted to have been asked to become the first Chair of the Entain Foundation. This great initiative clearly demonstrates Entain’s commitment to making a positive contribution to wider society by investing in the future of its customers, colleagues and communities. I am excited at the opportunity to help shape this journey.”
On her appointment as Entain Foundation Ambassador, Franziska van Almsick said:
“This is a great opportunity to play a role in supporting the work of the Entain Foundation. I have been impressed with the passion and commitment of Entain’s team in using their position to invest back in to grass roots sport and the wider community.”
Entain CEO Jette Nygaard-Andersen said:
“We are honoured to welcome Ed and Franziska to the Entain Foundation. The appointment of such high calibre individuals is a mark of our ambitions for the Foundation’s future. Collectively they bring incredible leadership and organisational skills as well as huge experience in the charitable sector and sporting world.”
Prior to his appointment as Governor, Ed Davis had a distinguished career in the military, rising to the rank of Lieutenant General.
During his military career he served in the Royal Marines, retiring from the Naval Service in 2016. His last military appointment was as Deputy Commander of NATO Land Forces in Izmir, Turkey. His previous appointments have included Commander 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and Commandant General of the Royal Marines (including Commander of UK Amphibious Forces).
As well as being an Olympic medallist Franziska van Almsick, was named World Swimmer of the Year in 1993, which she topped the following year by setting the world record for the 200m freestyle. In her role with the Entain Foundation, Franziska will promote its work and advise on opportunities to invest in sport.
Comments