GCGRA Appoints Jennifer Carleton as Licensing Chief

The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has appointed seasoned gaming law expert Jennifer Carleton as its new chief of licensing and regulations, marking another key leadership move as the young regulator continues to take shape.

Good to Know

• Carleton brings over 30 years of experience in gaming law, licensing, and compliance
• Previously served as chief legal officer at Sightline Payments
• Will oversee regulatory integrity and licensing frameworks within the GCGRA

Who Is Jennifer Carleton?

Carleton has spent more than three decades working across gaming law, regulatory compliance, and governance. Before joining the GCGRA, she served as chief legal officer at Sightline Payments, where she also sat on the company’s board for two years.

Her career also includes partnership roles at major US law firms Howard & Howard and Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, as well as more than a decade as senior staff attorney for the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin.

Carleton said:

“I’m honoured to return to the UAE after all these years; it’s been a few years since I lived in Abu Dhabi. I’m excited to be a part of this incredible team.”

Why Did the GCGRA Appoint Her?

The GCGRA emphasized Carleton’s extensive experience in global licensing, compliance, and relationship building with international regulators. In a statement, the authority said:

“Jennifer will play a key role in advancing our mission to regulate with integrity, transparency and global best practice. Her extensive background has fostered strong relationships with global regulators and licensing professionals, reinforcing her reputation as a trusted leader in gaming compliance and governance.”

Her appointment strengthens the GCGRA’s focus on building a credible and transparent regulatory environment for gaming and lottery operations in the UAE.

How Is the GCGRA Evolving?

The GCGRA, established in September 2023, was tasked with creating a framework for commercial gaming and a national lottery—a historic first for the UAE. The authority is led by CEO Kevin Mullally, formerly of the Missouri Gaming Commission and Gaming Laboratories International (GLI), and chaired by Jim Murren, the former chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts.

Recent leadership changes have reshaped parts of the management structure. Ahmed Barakat, the organisation’s former chief operating officer, has departed, with no successor announced yet. Meanwhile, Manuela Croci’s responsibilities have shifted, with investigative duties now falling under Carleton’s supervision.

Who Else Is on the Leadership Team?

Key figures remain in place, including:

1. Leina El Barasi, chief financial officer
2. Carlos Gutierrez, chief information officer
3. Dina Helal, chief human resources officer
4. Ourouba El Arab, general counsel and board secretary

The board of directors also remains intact, featuring Chris O’Donnell, John Kelly, Giovanni Lega, Mark Lipparelli, William Grounds, and Nick Casiello.

What Does Carleton’s Appointment Mean for the Regulator?

Her addition signals GCGRA’s continued push to professionalize and solidify its regulatory framework through leaders with proven international experience. Carleton’s background in compliance, tribal gaming, and payments makes her a strategic fit for overseeing licensing integrity and regulatory enforcement.

FAQ

Who is Jennifer Carleton?

She is the new chief of licensing and regulations at the UAE’s GCGRA with 30+ years of experience in gaming law and compliance.

What was her previous role?

She served as chief legal officer at Sightline Payments and was a partner at Howard & Howard and Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck.

What is the GCGRA’s role?

The GCGRA regulates commercial gaming and national lottery operations in the UAE, ensuring integrity and global best practices.

Who leads the GCGRA?

Kevin Mullally serves as CEO, and Jim Murren chairs the board of directors.

When was the GCGRA established?

The regulator was formed in September 2023 to oversee gaming regulation in the UAE.

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