Michael Dugher, a former Labour MP and prominent figure in the betting industry, has been appointed to the Board of Directors at Nottingham Forest.
While details of his specific responsibilities remain unclear, it is anticipated that his expertise will support the club in areas such as government affairs and public relations.
Dugher’s political career began in 2010 when he was elected as Labour MP for Barnsley East, a position he held until stepping down in 2017.
During his time in Parliament, he served as Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport in 2015 but was removed from the role in Jeremy Corbyn’s first cabinet reshuffle the following year.
Post-politics, Dugher became a key figure in the gambling industry, serving as CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) from 2017 to 2024.
His tenure included steering the organisation through the Gambling Act Review, one of the most significant regulatory changes in the sector.
A South Yorkshire native and graduate of the University of Nottingham, Dugher’s connection to the local area and club runs deep. A lifelong Nottingham Forest supporter, he expressed his pride in joining the Board.
“As a massive Forest fan, to be asked to join the Board of the greatest football club on planet earth is a huge honour and a privilege,” Dugher said.
“Thanks to the superb support and ongoing commitment of our owners, these are exciting times for Nottingham Forest – back where we belong competing amongst the elite of English football.
“I know how important the club is to the local community as well as to fans living across the country and indeed throughout the world. I hope I can use some of my experience to help the owners and the Board continue to build the club from strength to strength.”
Forest Chairman Nicholas Randall KC welcomed Dugher’s appointment, describing him as an excellent addition to the club’s leadership.
“We are delighted to welcome Michael to our Board of Directors. He is an outstanding candidate as well as a fan of the Club.
“His expertise in public affairs and his local knowledge and experience complement perfectly the existing skills on our Board. He joins us at a very exciting time both on and off the field, and we look forward to working with him.”
