EGBA Secretary General Maarten Haijer to Step Down After 13 Years

Maarten Haijer will step down as secretary general of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) after 13 years leading the Brussels-based online gambling trade body.

Haijer, who joined the EGBA in 2008 and became secretary general in 2013, will leave the role at the end of August. He will be replaced by senior director Pierre Tournier, who will take over on an interim basis from September 1.

The EGBA said Haijer had helped steer the association through a major transformation of Europe’s online gambling market. During his tenure, the EGBA helped open several European markets to competition. The group also highlighted the launch of European Safer Gambling Week and increased engagement with policymakers under his leadership.

“The European sector has changed almost beyond recognition during my time at EGBA – from pioneering start-ups to world-leading digital entertainment providers, with licenses across the globe,” Haijer said.

“We have achieved a great deal together, moving the industry forward and helping shape an environment that works far better for players as well, though important challenges remain.

“I leave the association in a strong position and in very capable hands, and I am confident Pierre and the team will build on the momentum of recent years,” he concluded.

Haijer did not disclose his next move but said he would make an announcement about his future “shortly.”

Tournier Puts Illegal Gambling High on Agenda

Tournier, who will assume the position on an interim basis, joined the EGBA in November 2025 and has more than 15 years of gambling industry advocacy experience.

He previously held senior roles at the UK’s Betting and Gaming Council and the Remote Gambling Association. During his time at the EGBA, he has worked on coordination with other trade bodies and the association’s response to illegal online gambling.

That issue is set to remain near the top of EGBA’s agenda following the leadership change.

“I take on the role at a pivotal moment: Europe’s regulatory landscape is evolving quickly, and the growth of the illegal market remains the biggest threat to players and to the regulated sector alike – combating it will be central to our work,” Tournier said.

He added that EGBA would continue pushing for higher industry standards, regulatory best practices, and stronger player protections.

The EGBA represents major online gambling companies licensed and regulated across the European Union. Its members collectively hold more than 400 online gambling licenses across 22 European countries.

The association says its members account for approximately 30% of Europe’s online gambling gross gaming revenue.