The internationally renowned bookmaker, online sportsbook, poker room and casino, William Hill, will be looking for a new Chief Executive Officer during recent days ahead. The company's current CEO, David Harding, has just announced that he will be leaving the bookmaker at the end of 2007, which although was an abrupt announcement, should not come as a total surprise. When one stops to think about Harding's enormously successful track record at William Hill, it fits the man well to move toward a new horizon.

This is precisely what Harding says he is going to do. When addressing the London Stock Exchange, Harding said "it was time to move on" and that he is ready for "a new challenge". Harding joined William Hill as its CEO seven years ago. Shortly after he signed on, Harding led the company's massive flotation on the London Stock Exchange, and has since helped the William Hill's share price climb to over twice its original value. Speaking of stock values, upon hearing the news that Harding would step down, Will Hill's shares dropped 3.5 pence to settle at 604.5 pence.

William Hill's total value is currently at a massive £2.13 Billion. The company said in a recent trading statement they are comfortable with their financial assessment for 2007. As little as three months ago, the company said it is expecting to see earnings from all ventures, including their online casino and poker room, come in at just under £300 million (before interest and taxes).

Whoever the next Chief at William Hill turns out to be, one thing is certain - It will be tough for them to drum up the outspokenness and sometimes controversial air that Harding had about him. Harding's last "closer", if you will, was his comment that the newly emerging Turf TV would be damaging to the gambling industry, both online and offline. Perhaps William Hill does not want controversy. Perhaps it is indeed better that Harding is moving on.