The business on...Breon Corcoran, Chief Executive, Betfair
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The favourite won!
Yes, which is something bookmakers won't want to hear today, the first really big Saturday of the jumps season.
The big race is sponsored by Paddy Power, the company Betfair's new boss, Breon Corcoran, is leaving, where he was second in command. Even Betfair's critics concede it has picked the right horse.
But will he be a champion at the end of the season?
Ah, now that's going to be more difficult. Mr Corcoran has a very good pedigree, though. He's had Paddy Power's highly successful remote gambling (industry speak for telephone and internet) operation under his control. Which is good news given Betfair's all about remote gambling.
There are some fences to jump though, aren't there?
The two companies are poles apart culturally. Paddy Power relentlessly plays up Its Irishness and is a PR whizz. "The punter's pal" blitzes customers with offers and specials. At the same time it is also a hard commercial success. Betfair's PR approach has been much more aggressive, snapping at other bookies. But as an exchange it needs to heed both sides of the betting transaction.
Can he do it?
Well he's very bright, being a graduate of Dublin's Trinity College with an MBA from the French business school Insead. He also knows about human resources, which was part of his remit at Paddy Power.
Why does that matter?
Because many analysts reckon Betfair has too many people at its Hammersmith HQ. If it comes to firing people, Mr Corcoran will need all his charm to keep the remaining staff onside.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments