Helma Lodders Steps Down as Chair of VNLOK

Helma Lodders, who has held the position of chair at the Licensed Dutch Online Gaming Providers (VNLOK) since its inception in 2021, has announced her decision to step down. Lodders’ term expires and she has chosen not to extend it. Current board member Björn Fuchs was unanimously elected as the new chair on the recommendation of the board. He will combine this role with his employment as Chief Digital Officer at Fair Play Casino.

In the run-up to the opening of the online gambling market, Lodders helped shape the trade association. Under her leadership, VNLOK has grown into a reliable discussion partner for politics, government, media and social organisations involved in gambling policy. In addition to representing the interests of the members, her efforts have also helped to place the extensive illegal gambling market high on the political and social agenda.

Helma Lodders said: “Since the establishment of VNLOK, I have fulfilled the role of chairman with pleasure. It was a period of political and social turbulence. At the same time, I have always kept the goal in mind; to work on a safe, reliable and controllable market with the right care for vulnerable players. Now that my term is ending, the time has come to pass the baton. I thank my fellow directors for the trust they have placed in me and have every confidence in Björn Fuchs as my successor.”

Björn Fuchs said: “I regret the departure of Helma Lodders. The board is grateful for the way in which she has given substance to our association with her skills and strength in an honest manner. The board therefore expresses its appreciation for the efforts that Helma has made since the foundation.”

“I look forward to my new role as chairman of VNLOK with pride and confidence. I will get started with great enthusiasm and, together with the members, will commit myself to the importance of a well-regulated online gambling market,” Björn Fuchs said.