WSOP Commissioner Calls it a Day – November 19th, 2009

Only days after telling an industry publication that he would remain as Commissioner for the the Harrah’s World Series of Poker if this suited his superiors, Jeffrey Pollack has resigned to ‘explore new business challenges.” He leaves the world’s biggest poker spectacular in good shape with solid registrations, impressive prizes and sponsorships and good media viewing statistics.

The 2009 WSOP drew a record 60 875 entrants over 57 tournaments, and the final table television screening was watched by some 2.5 million viewers. New of Pollack’s departure broke on the Las Vegas Review Journal and was later confirmed by Pollack on Twitter, where he posted: “Thank you for allowing me to be part of the WSOP these last few years. I will always be a fan and a friend to the poker community.”

Joining WSOP in 2005 after working at Nascar and the NBA, Pollack has spearheaded many of the changes that have made the event such a popular competition. He has also been at the helm through challenging times like the introduction of UIGEA and the impact that had on online poker room sponsorships to WSOP hopefuls.

Judging by comment from the WSOP communications chief, Seth Palansky, there are no plans to replace Pollack. He said in an interview: “…we are well positioned for the future. There is no intention at this time to replace the Commissioner role.”

It is presumed, but not yet confirmed, that Pollacks resignation includes his presidency of the new Harrah’s Interactive Entertainment subsidiary where he worked with CEO Mitch Garber.