The National Council on Problem Gambling named Charles H. Jeffers II its interim executive director Monday, effective immediately.
Jeffers replaces Heather Maurer, who resigned as executive director in September amid the fallout from accepting Kalshi’s membership into the NCPG in May. Jeffers is the founder of The Jeffers Group, a consulting company that specializes in interim executive leadership, governance, strategic operations and organizational culture.
“Charles’ depth of experience in understanding culture dynamics, operational demands, and board governance is key to our selecting him to lead as Interim Executive Director of NCPG,” NCPG Board President Derek Longmeier said in a statement. “As he navigates the leadership transition, he will be focused on operations aligned with strategy and transparency, and culture reflecting NCPG values.”
The NCPG plans to begin its search for a permanent replacement in January 2027, led by executive search firm Vetted Solutions.
NCPG hopes Jeffers provides stability
NCPG’s announcement said Jeffers has “firsthand experience in managing challenges that could undermine an organization and to instead ensure further strengthening.”
Jeffers is the founder and principal consultant of The Jeffers Group and has more than 30 years of nonprofit executive leadership and consulting experience. He previously served as interim executive director of the American Occupational Therapy Association and as CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority.
His leadership roles have spanned technology, operations, membership, strategic planning, destination sales and marketing.
Fallout from Kalshi relationship
Not only did Kalshi become a member, the NCPG created a Financial Services & Trading Category to accommodate the prediction market. The NCPG also accepted a $2 million investment from Kalshi with its new membership status.
Facing criticism, the NCPG issued a memo reiterating that membership or donations do “not equal endorsement.” That didn’t satisfy some members.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission was the first organization to leave the NCPG, doing so quietly in June. The Michigan Gaming Control Board was the first to leave publicly, doing so in July.
The OCCC and MGCB sent nearly identical letters to the NCPG. The OCCC’s read:
“I regret this action is necessary but trust you will understand the Commission’s need to ensure that it is not associated with organizations that are affiliated with companies engaged in illegal gambling in Ohio.”
Both regulators have since scored legal wins against Kalshi. Ohio won a Sixth Circuit ruling that allows the state to enforce its gambling laws against Kalshi. Michigan won a preliminary injunction last month that bars Kalshi from offering sports event contracts in the state.
The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling was the third major organization to leave the NCPG in August. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is remaining a member for now, but might have to sever ties “sooner rather than later,” Commissioner Eileen O’Brien said during a September meeting.
Chair Jordan Maynard said the MGC is putting the NCPG “on notice,” adding that “when our renewal comes up, we’re going to have another conversation.”
