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The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has brought in a governance and strategic consulting firm to help navigate an internal crisis sparked by its controversial decision to embrace prediction markets.
On Monday (Oct. 26), the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) named Charles H. Jeffers II as interim executive director. Jeffers is the founder of The Jeffers Group, an organizational consulting firm providing services in governance, leadership, and strategy.
Jeffers specializes in interim executive leadership during organizational transitions. The NCPG’s transition, however, was unplanned: Executive Director Heather Maurer abruptly resigned in September amid mounting backlash over the national problem gambling nonprofit creating a new membership category for prediction markets.
In exchange for a $2 million grant, the NCPG established its Financial Services & Trading membership category. In response, the Michigan Gaming Control Board, the Ohio Casino Control Commission, and the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling rescinded their NCPG memberships, citing an unwillingness to align with platforms they believe engage in illegal sports betting.
NCPG at Crossroads
The NCPG has defended its prediction market membership framework, arguing that the nonprofit works to “prevent and reduce gambling-related harm wherever it occurs”. The organization has stated it believes sports event trading on prediction markets is “functionally gambling” and can expose consumers to the same risks as traditional sports betting.
Nevertheless, the NCPG—which maintains a policy of neither supporting nor opposing gambling—continues to face criticism from the legal gaming industry and several longtime members. Leadership hopes Jeffers will bring stability during a pivotal period.
Charles’ depth of experience in understanding cultural dynamics, operational demands, and board governance is key to our selecting him to lead as interim executive director,” said Derek Longmeier, NCPG’s board president. “As he navigates the leadership transition, he will be focused on operations aligned with strategy and transparency, and culture reflecting NCPG values.”
Longmeier said a national search for a permanent executive director will begin in January. Vetted Solutions, based in Washington, DC, will assist in identifying qualified candidates.
Jeffers’ Resume
Jeffers previously served as interim executive director for the American Occupational Therapy Association and as chief executive officer of the Bermuda Tourism Authority. According to the NCPG, Jeffers brings more than 30 years of nonprofit executive leadership and organizational consulting experience.
“Organizations exist to serve their members and advance a mission. Everything else—governance, operations, culture—should be in service of that purpose. When those systems are aligned, organizations don’t just function better; they become what they were always meant to be,” Jeffers said.