Long-serving William Hill director faces redundancy

Graham Sharpe is to step down as media relations director at William Hill after agreeing to be made redundant. Speaking during an interview with PRWeek, Sharpe said he agreed a deal with the bookmaker after being informed that he was “at risk” of redundancy at the firm. Sharpe, who has been with William Hill since 1972, added that he “never asked to leave” the company. “At no time during my employment with the company have I ever expressed a wish to leave,” Sharpe said. Sharpe, who is expected to step down at some point this week, added that he will continue to work with the bookmaker on a freelance-basis on initiatives such as the ‘William Hill Sportsbook of the Year’, which he co-founded. The departure comes after Jon Ivan-Duke last month stepped down from his role as public relations manager at William Hill. Ciaran O’Brien, communications director for the company, paid tribute to Sharpe and said that his 45-year career was a “remarkable testament to his talent and stamina”. O’Brien also said that neither Sharpe nor Ivan-Duke will be replaced. Related article: William Hill names Prior as chief financial officer