William Hill hands interim boss Philip Bowcock the job

Struggling William Hill finally has a permanent boss as it handed the job to interim chief executive Philip Bowcock today.

Bowcock, who has served as interim CEO since the bookie sacked predecessor James Henderson last July, takes the role after less than 18 months in the industry. He joined as chief financial officer from Cineworld.

His relative lack of experience in the sector is said to have caused concerns among some investors, although Bowcock today insisted he had the “unanimous support of the board” and backing from shareholders.

William Hill’s biggest investor, 14% shareholder Parvus, declined to comment.

Hills is seen as ripe for takeover after its online business slipped. During Bowcock’s brief spell in charge, it has rejected a consortium bid from rivals 888 and Rank while a mooted tie-up with Canadian gaming giant Amaya collapsed in embarrassing fashion.

Sportingbet owner GVC Holdings has been mooted as a possible suitor.