Mr Mummery, co-founder of online sports business Betinternet, will take over the role from John Gilmore, who is stepping down after 18 months in the job.

He will promote the development of the Island as a leading e-gaming centre and provide advice to the government on the industry.

He said: 'I am delighted to have the opportunity to take the Isle of Man to the next level as a premier jurisdiction for e-gaming. With so much continuous change taking place in this global industry there are significant and increasing opportunities for the Isle of Man.

'The Isle of Man has such a good story to tell, from jurisdictional benefits, regulatory framework, world class telecommunications infrastructure to a highly-skilled IT sector.'

Mr Gilmore will be leaving the government, but believes the future is very positive for e-gaming.

He said: 'I am handing over the baton to Bill after 18 months working to develop the Isle of Man's e-Gaming sector.

In that time we have seen significant growth, attracting businesses such as Boyle Sports, Paddypower, Neteller and now 'potentially' Pokerstars such that the Isle of Man now has an international reputation as an e-gaming centre of excellence.

It is with much reluctance that I must step down from this role for personal reasons. I can think of no better person to replace me than Bill. I wish him good luck — although I know that neither he nor the Island's e-gaming sector needs any.'

Alex Downie, Minister for Trade & Industry, said: 'It is an exciting time for Bill to be joining in terms of the development of the e-gaming sector on the Isle of Man.

'This month we saw the zero rate corporation tax for the e-gaming sector come into effect, following very closely the change in policy over the acceptance of bets from the US, moves that demonstrate the Government's commitment in providing an attractive proposition for e-gaming businesses considering re-location to the Island.

'This, alongside the high-quality legislative and regulatory environment on the Island, allows businesses to expand and develop.'

He added: 'John has been a key driver in moving the Isle of Man Government's e-gaming proposition forward in a very positive manner.

'Both the Isle of Man Government and the e-gaming related industries here in the Island have benefited greatly from his contribution. The Department of Trade and Industry wish him the very best.'

Bill Mummery brings with him an impressive background in the e-gaming sector and IT.

He has spent 20 years in a corporate environment in broadcast and IT technology.