Rob Allen found himself in a state of eager anticipation while standing on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on January 29th. This marked a significant moment for him, as shares in the Irish-based sports betting and gaming company were poised to commence trading after extensive preparations. As the company’s group head of corporate campaigns, Allen considered this event the pinnacle of his career thus far, surpassing any prior experiences in terms of excitement and thrill as he awaited the ringing of the opening bell.
Reflecting on the moment, Allen described it as surreal, stating, “It was definitely a pinch-yourself moment.” Amidst the hustle and bustle of managing the international media and briefing Rob Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion and ambassador for the FanDuel brand, Allen noted the vibrant atmosphere in the exchange. He highlighted the presence of numerous Irish individuals who had longstanding connections with the business, both internally and on the advisory front, contributing to the electric ambiance of the occasion.
Allen’s educational background includes studying accountancy at DIT before pursuing a master’s degree in financial journalism in London in 2012. Residing in Fulham, a mere 15-minute commute from his workplace, Allen shared insights into his journey and interests, mentioning, “I had friends whose families were affected by the crash, and I became a bit obsessed with the financial news from 2008 onwards.”
Transitioning to his role at Flutter in 2021, Allen brought with him eight years of experience at FGS Global, where he ascended from a junior associate to a director. His affiliation with Flutter stemmed from his Irish heritage, which likely played a role in his assignment to the account. Recalling the economic challenges faced by Ireland post-banking crash, Allen expressed his shift from accountancy to financial journalism, driven by a keen interest in financial news and a desire for a more impactful career path.
Describing the dynamic pace of life in London as “enjoyably relentless,” Allen emphasized the city’s vibrancy and multicultural essence despite the challenges posed by Brexit. He highlighted the diverse experiences offered by different neighborhoods, each exuding a unique vibe in terms of people, cuisine, and fashion, akin to visiting distinct countries within the city.
Acknowledging the scale and scope of strategic communications in London compared to Dublin, Allen noted the elevated level of representation, transactions, and campaigns, attributing his career progression and eventual move to Flutter to the exposure and opportunities presented in the dynamic London environment.
Within Flutter’s group communications team, Allen plays a pivotal role in enhancing the corporate brand’s visibility while supporting operations across various regions globally. Flutter, originally Paddy Power, has evolved into the largest online sports betting and gaming company worldwide, encompassing renowned consumer brands such as FanDuel, Betfair, and PokerStars, while maintaining a substantial presence in Dublin and Paddy Power shops across Ireland.
Despite the demanding nature of his role, Allen finds solace in playing online chess to unwind and maintains a satisfactory work-life balance within the driven management team at Flutter. Reflecting on the company’s resilience during the pandemic, marked by the completion of an M&A with the Canadian gaming company, the Stars Group, Allen highlighted the plethora of global opportunities within Flutter.
While content in London alongside his partner Hannah, Allen cherishes the proximity to Ireland, enabling him to reconnect with family swiftly. Fondly reminiscing about his parents and their unique traits, Allen expressed a sense of nostalgia for his homeland, including the warmth of his mother, the wisdom of his father, and the shared love for quizzes. Amidst the bustling London life, Allen finds comfort in the familiar Irish traditions, occasional visits home, and the evolving pub culture that resonates with his Irish roots.