Bragg Gaming Group

Oryx Gaming’s parent company Bragg Gaming Group has announced that founder and interim CEO Adam Arviv has named Richard Carter to the role of CEO of the company, effective May 1, 2021.

Arviv, founder and among the largest shareholders of the company, previously petitioned the board to place him in the role of CEO in September 2020 amid disappointment with the negative effects of continued underperformance. Subsequently, he strategically recruited Carter as board chair.

“We’ve made significant progress in our strategic goals over the past months, and Richard is the ideal person to advance our plans – expanding our current market overseas and aggressively moving into the US market,” added Arviv.

“Richard is a recognised authority in the online sports and casino betting industry, with a proven record helping launch SBTech in the US market, before the successful sale of the company to DraftKings. We’re working together to make the necessary adjustments as we transform Bragg into a major player.”

Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment

Connecticut-based casino operator Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment has appointed Bobby Soper to the new role of international president.

In his role, Soper will represent MGE in Asia as he oversees, coordinating and directing all aspects of the company’s efforts related to both Inspire Korea Project in South Korea and its joint bid for an integrated resort license in Nagasaki, Japan with Oshidori International.

“Having served the Mohegan Tribe and MGE for many years, we are confident in Bobby’s experience and capabilities to guide our efforts on the ground in Asia,” said James Gessner, chairman of the Mohegan Tribe.

“Bobby’s leadership and presence representing MGE will serve as a catalyst and result in significant progress with both of these important international project commitments.”

Videoslots

Online casino operator Videoslots has appointed Peter Sjoberg to the role of chief operating officer. He joined Videoslots as its head of customer services in 2018 and was quickly promoted to director of customer services.

Sjoberg, who has also held senior positions at Betclic and Unibet, will use his 15 years of industry experience to oversee the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the company.

“Peter is a dedicated, hands-on and performance driven colleague. During his time at Videoslots he has earned a reputation as someone who brings strong leadership, vision and integrity to every role he takes,” Alexander Stevendahl, Videoslots’ CEO, noted.

“I am confident that his appointment as COO will mean we can accomplish even bigger and better things as a brand, and I am very much looking forward to us hitting our targets together in the coming months.”

Genius Sports

Genius Sports has confirmed the appointment of David Levy as new company chairman, as the company moves to imminently list on the New York Stock Exchange.

A figurehead in US sports and entertainment, Levy is the former president of Turner Broadcasting, credited with radically diversifying the news broadcaster’s media portfolio.

During his 30-year executive tenure at Turner, Levy played an instrumental role in defining and expanding the company’s media rights by securing long-term partnerships with the NBA, MLB, NCAA and PGA.

“The capture and analysis of data has become fundamental to the rapid progression of the sports and media sectors. Genius is central to this unique ecosystem and is consistently leading the sports data and technology industry’s development,” Levy said.

“I am thrilled to join the business at such a historic time and look forward to working as part of the team.”

Spotlight Sports Group

Spotlight Sports Group continues to broaden its US market presence with the appointment of Justin Geiger as VP of US sales. Based in Washington DC, he becomes the first senior commercial recruit operating from the US as the group grows its commercial capabilities within the space.

In the role, which focuses largely on B2B sports betting content and partnerships with media and sports betting operators through Pickswise, Geiger will be tasked with growing the portfolio of US B2B and media partners.

Sam Houlding, Spotlight Sports Group’s chief commercial officer, noted: “It’s a timely appointment for the group in the US following the really strong foundation we’ve set with the growth of Pickswise and the establishment of our US B2B business which provides high-quality sports betting content taking customers beyond the odds.

“Justin brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the landscape and I’ve no doubt he’ll be a great success in advancing our business efforts as we look to scale quickly and further build on our operation in the coming months.”

The post Part 62 | On the move: recruitment round-up appeared first on CasinoBeats.

SB17, the bill to introduce sports betting, was initially introduced in January and gained the support of multiple members of the Connecticut Senate and House of Representatives. The bill sought to become “an act authorizing sports wagering, internet gambling and internet keno.”

The bill was passed on to the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security, gaining a 16-to-8 vote in favour of the legislation. Governor Lamont initially expressed hope that sports betting would be legalized in Connecticut, stating: “There are a lot of moving parts in politics, and I’ve got to bring some folks together to get this done. But I think it’s the right thing for the state, and that’s why I’m going to support it and put my shoulder to the wheel to get it done.”

But despite the initial support from the state legislators, as well as the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes for internet gambling and sports betting, details in the legislation came to light which caused concern for the tribal leaders.

Lamont didn’t comment on the talks except to say, “We can do sports betting. We can do internet gambling. I’m trying to find a global solution going forward that honors our commitment to the tribes and make sure we do this in a thoughtful way for the next 20 years.”

The main point of friction between the state policy makers and the tribes arose over the rights to sports betting, given that the tribes already hold the exclusive rights to casino gambling across the state.

Lamont has spoken of how there must be a mutual agreement on the bill between policy makers and the tribes. He stated: “I’d love to make a deal with Rodney (Butler, Mashantucket Pequot Chairman). I’d love to make a deal with Mohegan and MGM in a way that I honor my compact with Rodney and the tribes – that includes internet, it includes sports. But I’m not going to do it if we don’t have a global solution.”

Butler has been firm in his position that sports betting falls under the remit of casinos, and therefore should be considered under the tribal rights to casinos. The state’s legislative session is due to come to a close on 5 June, which leaves a very short period of time to amend the bill and push it forward to gain votes from both sides of the house.

With the way negotiations are currently panning out, it looks like sports betting in Connecticut could be on hold until the 2020 legislative session.

The post Connecticut delays sports betting bill due to Tribal objections appeared first on CasinoBeats.

$3.6bn

Flutter Entertainment declared total group revenue for Q2 of $3.6bn in its latest financial results, up 20% YoY and 22% in constant currency (Q2 2023: $3bn).

The operator also noted that the addition of MaxBet in Q1 added $52m to group revenue growth YoY, while average monthly players grew by 17% YoY to 14.3 million (2023: 12.2 million).

Excluding US operations, group revenue improved by 10% in comparison to the same period the previous year and by 11% in constant currency to $2.1bn (2023: $1.9bn).

Net income rose by 364% YoY to $297m (2023: $64m) with a margin of 8.2% (2023: 2.1%). This was also a rebound from a net loss of $177m reported by the operator in Q1.

Flutter attributed the growth to the aforementioned segment performances, as well as “after the non-cash impacts of a gain in the fair value of the Fox Option liability of $91m (Q2 2023: $53m loss) and a charge relating to the amortisation of acquired intangibles of $147m (Q2 2023: $195m)”.

The group’s adjusted EBITDA rose by 17% YoY and 19% in constant currency to $738m (2023: $633m) with a margin of 20.4% (2023: 21.1%), reflecting “strong revenue performance and ongoing adjusted EBITDA margin expansion in the US”.

Excluding US operations, adjusted EBITDA grew by 4% YoY and 6% in constant currency to $478m (2023: $461m), primarily driven by a “weaker racing market in Australia”.

Net cash provided by operating activities improved by 688% YoY to $323m (2023: $41m), while free cash flow rose as well in comparison to the same period last year to $171m (2023: negative $95m).

Flutter noted that the improvements were due to the continuation of a “good conversion of operational performance to cash” as well as a “lower cash flow during Q2 2023 driven by the large payout within player deposits relating to the record Sisal lottery jackpot, which was partly offset by a cash receipt on settlement of derivatives in the same period”.

£143m

Challenging UK retail headwinds were cited by evoke as the reason for its year on year decline in Q2 of 2024 as overall H1 losses increased to £143m (Q22023: £32m). 

Meanwhile, the organisation reported revenue of £862m for H2 as a whole, showing a decline of 2% year-over-year but up 4% sequentially on H2 2023. 

UK retail falling by 8% was largely cited as a key contributing factor behind the decline, as the firm admitted the retail gaming offering of William Hill had fallen behind competition. 

Furthermore, management expectations were met when it came to H1 Group revenues, which amounted to £862m (H1 2022: £881m). However, group accounts detailed double-digit adjusted EBITDA declines across all core business segments.

Group CEO, Per Widerström, stated: “The return on our marketing – primarily in UK Online – was lower than expected, leading to an online marketing ratio of 25%, which was higher than planned. We have put in place a new and experienced commercial leadership team and marketing leadership team, and we are transforming the way we plan and undertake our marketing.

“The corrective actions we have already taken give us even more confidence that our strategic approach is sound and that we will achieve sustainable success.”

21.4%

Mohegan reported its “highest quarterly net revenues after witnessing a 21.4% YoY increase in net revenues to $504.2m (Q3 2023: $415.4m). 

CFO Ari Glazer attributed the improvement primarily “to continued growth in Mohegan Digital and revenue from Mohegan INSPIRE”.

Income from operations dropped by 12.1% in comparison to the same period the previous year to $72.4m (2023: $82.4m). The operator also reported a net loss of $29.9m (2023: $50.6m net income) and an adjusted EBITDA of $104.7m, down 3.6% YoY (2023: $108.7m).

As of 30 June, Mohegan held cash and cash equivalents of $180.9m (30 September 2023: $217.3m).

Glazer commented: “Consolidated adjusted EBITDA of $104.7m decreased $3.9m compared with the prior-year period, primarily due to operating costs related to the opening of Mohegan INSPIRE and non-controlling interest adjustments at Niagara Resorts, offset by strong growth in our digital operations.’

£734m

Rank Group’s 2023/24 financial results revealed that it is delivering on its strategic plan as underlying net gaming revenue rose by 9% year-over-year to £734.4m (2022/23: £671.4m). 

Both venues and digital NGR improved year-over-year. Venue underlying NGR improved by 8% in comparison to the previous year to £508.4m (2022: £468.8m) while digital underlying NGR increased by 12% to £226m (2022: £202.6m). In Q4, NGR improved by 14% YoY.

As a result, underlying operating profit had a 131% uptick YoY to £46.5m (2022: £20.1m), which Rank says was “slightly ahead of analysts’ consensus” and reflected “significant operating leverage in the business”. Operating profit improved in H2 to £24.8m compared to £21.7m in H1.

Employment costs increased by 11% YoY too for the group due to “wage inflation and the reinstatement of colleague bonuses”. The firm expects this to continue to be a key headwind in 2024/25 and rise by a further 7%.

Net free cash flow stood at £26.6m (2022: £17.9m loss) and net cash pre-IFRS 16 was £20.9m (2022: £5.9m debt). Following investments in venues and proprietary technology, total capital expenditure was £46.7m, while the group expects the figure to be around £60m for 2024/25.

1,000

Ongoing strikes at Evolution’s Georgia offices have caused the igaming supplier to respond by laying off 1,000 employees. 

“This regretful decision was not taken lightly,” Evolution said when announcing the redundancies via its Facebook page. 

“It is a direct consequence of the union’s unlawful actions and its negative impact on Evolution’s operations in Georgia, and the damage it has caused on Evolution customers’ view of Georgia.

“The recent illegal actions initiated by one of the local unions have hindered Evolution’s ability to operate in Georgia and has hurt Evolution’s customers, many of which now no longer wish to operate their tables from Georgia,” Evolution’s statement read.

Evolution referred to the impact strike action has had on the company’s relationship with clients as “permanent damage”, specifically naming the strikers’ illegal blockade as a reason for the permanent workforce reduction. 

In a reassessment of its presence in Georgia’s capital, Evolution will move “most of its customer-specific tables to its other studios worldwide”, with the dismantling and removal of its clients’ tables having already begun.

The post Flutter, Mohegan, Evolution and evoke: the week in numbers appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Across its operations, the operator noted that digital revenue rose by more than 150% in comparison to the same period last year, while Mohegan INSPIRE in South Korea has now generated $101.1m in revenue since it opened. 

CEO Raymond Pineault reflected on the three months ending 30 June, where he stated that he was “confident” in how the operator’s strategy was starting to take shape and “excited” about near and long-term prospects.

Mohegan also recently announced that Joseph J Hasson has been named as the operator’s permanent Chief Operating Officer, after previously serving in the role on an interim basis since April.

Historic quarter

Publishing its financials, Mohegan reported a 21.4% YoY increase in net revenues to $504.2m (Q3 2023: $415.4m), its “highest quarterly net revenues” in its history. CFO Ari Glazer attributed the improvement primarily “to continued growth in Mohegan Digital and revenue from Mohegan INSPIRE”.

Income from operations dropped by 12.1% in comparison to the same period the previous year to $72.4m (2023: $82.4m). The operator also reported a net loss of $29.9m (2023: $50.6m net income) and an adjusted EBITDA of $104.7m, down 3.6% YoY (2023: $108.7m).

As of 30 June, Mohegan held cash and cash equivalents of $180.9m (30 September 2023: $217.3m).

Glazer commented: “Consolidated adjusted EBITDA of $104.7m decreased $3.9m compared with the prior-year period, primarily due to operating costs related to the opening of Mohegan INSPIRE and non-controlling interest adjustments at Niagara Resorts, offset by strong growth in our digital operations. 

“Excluding the adjustment of non-controlling interest at Niagara Resorts, Adjusted EBITDA would have been $108.3m or flat to prior year.”

Segment performance

Per segment, domestic revenue rose by 2.6% in comparison to the same period last year to $310.7m (2023: $302.7m). This was due to higher non-gaming revenues which were “driven by strong entertainment, food and beverage revenues”.

For revenue per location, Mohegan Sun generated $235.7m (2023: $230.7m), Mohegan Pennsylvania produced $68.7m (2023: $65.2m) and Mohegan Las Vegas reported $6.3m (2023: $6.8m).

Domestic’s income from operations grew by 2.7% YoY to $63.6m (2023: $61.9m), net income increased by 5.8% to $63.5m (2023: $60.1m) and adjusted EBITDA fell slightly to $82.2m (2023: $83m) with a margin of 26.5%.

Internationally, net revenue rose by 67% to $135.4m (2023: $81.1m), driven by Mohegan INSPIRE which had $60.1m in revenue during the measuring period. Niagara Resorts revenue stood at $75.3m (2023: $81.1m). 

However, Mohegan suffered a loss from operations and a net loss in this segment of $14.5m and $35.9m, respectively. Adjusted EBITDA also fell to a loss of $2.1m (2023: $13.7m), primarily due to operating costs related to INSPIRE’s opening and a $3.6m non-controlling interest adjustment related to Niagara Resorts.

Mohegan noted: “Excluding the adjustment for non-controlling interest, adjusted EBITDA would have been $1.5m, which we believe presents a more accurate comparison with prior periods.”

Digital growth

As for digital operations, net revenue for the period came in at $41.9m, up 151.3% YoY due to the growth of its Connecticut operations (2023: $16.7m). Yet, the operator noted that the results were impacted by $6m in igaming tax reimbursements from “igaming partners being included as an increase to both net revenues and expenses in the current year”.

Income from digital operations increased by 100.1% to $23m (2023: $11.5m), net income grew by 99.1% to $23.1m (2023: $11.6m) and adjusted EBITDA came in at $23.1m (2023: $11.6m) “as Mohegan Digital continues to experience strong growth”.

Across management, development and other operations, net revenue stood at $22.5m (2023: $21.5m) “driven by higher management fee and inter-company entertainment revenues, partially offset by Mohegan INSPIRE development fees earned in the prior-year period”.

The segment’s income from operations was $11.2m (2023: $16.5m) with a net loss of $9.7m (2023: $6.2m net income) and an adjusted EBITDA of $11.2m (2023: $16.4m), due to “Mohegan INSPIRE development fees earned in the prior-year period”.

Corporate and other revenue stood at $27,000 (2023: $10,000) with a loss from operations of $10.8m (2023: $11.6m) and a net loss of $70.9m (2023: $25.9m) “due to a loss on fair value adjustment driven by changes in the estimated value of the warrants and put option” related to its Korea Term Loan.

Adjusted EBITDA for the segment was a loss of $9.7m (2023: $10.4m loss) primarily due to “corporate labour savings”.

Pineault stated: “As I look across our enterprise, I feel confident about how our strategy is taking shape and I’m excited about our near and long-term prospects.

“The combination of profitable growth in Digital, the ramp at INSPIRE since the grand opening in March, combined with the stability and resilience of our flagship, Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, highlights some of the important drivers for our growth in the present and future.”

Hasson named as permanent COO

As mentioned earlier, Mohegan has also named interim COO Hasson as the operator’s permanent Chief Operating Officer. He previously served in this position for Station Casinos and Red Rock Resorts.

Reporting to Pineault, Hasson will be responsible for the development and execution of short and long-term strategic business plans across all Mohegan properties in the US, Canada and Northern Asia, enhancing operational efficiency and guest satisfaction alongside high service standards. 

He will also work with the operator’s leadership team to “align all strategic processes with company-wide goals, emphasising the sustainable growth of Mohegan’s portfolio of entertainment resorts”.

In addition, Hasson will continue as General Manager of Mohegan Casino at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas while the casino transitions ownership.

“Joe Hasson’s expertise, garnered over more than 40 years in the gaming and hospitality industries, coupled with his exemplary leadership at our Las Vegas property, positions him uniquely to ensure strategic alignment and continuity across Mohegan’s diverse portfolio,” said Pineault.

“We are confident that his leadership as our Chief Operating Officer will be instrumental in our sustained success.”

The post Mohegan: Historic quarter as net revenues hit quarterly high appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Previously Senior Vice President of Strategic Development, Parker has been with Mohegan since 2022, but will now be responsible for identifying, assessing and executing growth opportunities and strategic new ventures for the company.

The operator stated that Parker will play a key role in growth and capital planning, “initiating and vetting growth opportunities and collaborating across all functional areas to ensure successful implementation”, in addition to working alongside its executive team to align long-term goals with strategic initiatives.

Ray Pineault, President and CEO of Mohegan, stated: “Nelson has vast experience and a proven track record in strategic development and growth within the gaming and hospitality sectors. 

“His skills will be invaluable as we continue to expand our footprint globally and explore new opportunities.”

Before joining Mohegan, Parker worked for Driftwood Capital as a Managing Director, but he also has experience in the gaming industry.

He previously worked for PENN Entertainment as SVP of Corporate Development, Hard Rock International as SVP of Hotel & Casino Development, Foxwoods Resort Casino as VP of Development and Argosy Gaming as Corporate Director of Development.

Parker said on his promotion: “I am honoured to be a part of Mohegan’s executive leadership team and contribute to the company’s dynamic growth and strategic vision. 

“Leveraging my experience in the gaming and hospitality sectors, I look forward to identifying new opportunities and driving initiatives that will enhance our offerings and expand our global footprint.”

The post Mohegan promotes Nelson Parker to Chief Strategy Officer appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Part of the Curio Collection owned by Hilton, the Virgin Hotels resort will transition to a new casino operation if required regulatory approvals are met. Following the transition period, Mohegan will cease to manage or lease the venue.  

“We are grateful for the collaboration with Mohegan, and we will continue to work together to ensure a well-ordered transition of casino operations,” said Cliff Atkinson, President at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, who will oversee the transition. 

“This transition is a natural progression in our journey to provide guests of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas with a seamless resort experience.”

The two companies asserted that a “smooth handover” will be prioritised, with the transition period set to be completed by the end of the year with “no significant disruptions” expected for the resort’s current operations. 

Ray Pineault, President and CEO, Mohegan, added: “Mohegan’s partnership with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas was, upon inception, and is today in the very best interest of the guests and hard-working team members whose patronage and contributions to the business are deeply appreciated.

“While Mohegan’s role will come to an end, we are confident that the Resort’s unwavering focus on guest and team member satisfaction will continue.”

The post Mohegan to part ways with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Mohegan

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority has appointed Joseph J Hasson as interim Chief Operating Officer, who is currently the General Manager of Mohegan Casino at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

Effective August 1, 2024, Hasson will be replacing Jody Madigan in the COO position, who has resigned and will be taking a leave of absence pending his departure.

Reporting to President and CEO Ray Pineault, Hasson will serve as interim COO and retain his current General Manager role, subject to necessary regulatory filings or approvals.

Mohegan added that Hasson was an “obvious choice” with his more than 40 years of gaming and hospitality experience, as he has also been COO for Station Casinos and Red Rock Resorts.

Pineault commented: “Joseph J Hasson’s deep understanding of the gaming and hospitality industry makes him exceptionally qualified to maintain our high service and operational excellence standards.

“We are confident that Joe’s extensive experience and proven leadership will ensure continuity in our operations and guest experience.”

The Star

The Star Entertainment Group has announced that Jessica Mellor, CEO of The Star Gold Coast, has tendered her resignation to the operator’s board, effective May 24, 2024. 

Subject to regulatory approval, The Star Gold Coast’s current General Manager of Gaming, Ian Brown, will take on additional responsibilities as acting CEO. Mellor has agreed to provide support until September 2024 to assist with the transition.

Mellor became The Star Gold Coast’s youngest and first female CEO when she was appointed in October 2023. She was previously the COO of the property from 2019. 

She played a key role in helping the venue become “an iconic Gold Coast tourism and entertainment precinct, including the development of the $2bn masterplan part of a joint venture consortium”.

The Star has begun its search for a new CEO for its Gold Coast venue.

Executive Chair, David Foster, noted: “Jessica has led The Star Gold Coast through some challenging times including through COVID and has been instrumental in developing the Gold Coast property into an iconic world-class integrated destination resort with our joint venture partners.

“Jessica has decided the time is right to move on and she leaves with both the board’s and my personal thanks, for her tireless efforts as CEO of The Star Gold Coast.” 

PAGCOR

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has appointed Wilma Eisma as its new President and Chief Operating Officer. 

Becoming the agency’s first-ever woman President and COO, Eisma succeeds Atty Juanito Sanosa Jr, who resigned from the position last January.

A lawyer by profession, Eisma has a law degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and was previously a member of the Development Bank of the Philippines’ board of directors.

She also served as the first woman Administrator and Chair of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and has held leadership roles with PMFTC Inc, the Philippine affiliate of Philip Morris International, as well as key positions at the Department of Trade and Industry.

Commenting on Eisma’s appointment, PAGCOR Chair Alejandro Tengco said: “We are happy to welcome Atty Wilma Eisma as PAGCOR’s new President and COO.

“We know she will be a great asset, and her vast experience in both the government and private sectors will surely be put to good use here.”

NeoGames

NeoGames has added Christopher Shaban to its leadership team as Managing Director of iLottery, effective immediately.

The appointment of Shaban is part of the company’s plans and progression towards the closing of its acquisition by Aristocrat, expected in the second quarter of 2024.

With over 27 years of experience in the global lottery industry, Shaban initially joined NeoGames in 2021 as EVP of Global Business and Customer Development for the company’s ilottery business.

Moti Malul, CEO at NeoGames, said: “Chris is hugely respected within the lottery industry and his track record speaks for itself. I am thrilled about his appointment and look forward to seeing him drive us forward in our ilottery business.”

Shaban will oversee all ilottery activity for the group globally, including new business and customer growth, as well as the continued global expansion of its ilottery solution and in-house game studio, NeoGames Studio.

Shaban added: “It has been a few wonderful years with NeoGames and I am excited to continue in this new role as Managing Director, iLottery. 

“Working together with the extremely talented people in our company, we are poised to expand our efforts under Aristocrat to best support our global lottery customers on their interactive journey.”

EPIC

EPIC Global Solutions has announced the departure of Mark Potter, who served as Head of Delivery and was the company’s second-longest-serving member of staff.

Potter initially joined the organisation nine years ago, when he teamed up with EPIC Founder and CEO Paul Buck as a Lived Experience Facilitator, before moving into the role of Head of Delivery.

EPIC noted that Potter played a critical role in the company’s work over the years, sharing his own gambling harm story to “educate thousands of at-risk demographics and making a real impact” across the business and its global partners.

“We wish Mark all the best for the future and thank him for his time and efforts in seeking to prevent others from experiencing harm,” stated EPIC.

Aspire Global

Aspire Global, a NeoGames subsidiary, has appointed Jonathan Chilton as Managing Director.

Chilton brings over 19 years of igaming knowledge to the role, with previous experience across B2B and B2C operations.

He previously worked as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at GM Gaming Limited, a Betway company under the Super Group umbrella, leading its expansion in several regulated European markets while serving as a director on seven licensed entities.

Commenting on his appointment, Chilton said: “It’s fantastic to be joining Aspire Global at what is a very exciting time for the company and its growth prospects. We have a talented team here and I’m determined to accelerate our growth through the delivery of a full spectrum of cutting-edge solutions.”

Chilton also spent 12 years at Osiris Trading in South Africa across several roles, introducing Betway into African markets.

Moti Malul, NeoGames CEO, added: I’m thrilled to welcome Jonathan onboard. Jonathan brings a vast wealth of experience with him and will be a major asset both for Aspire Global’s white label focus as well as the broader NeoGames group.”

The post Mohegan, NeoGames, The Star: on the move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

UK Gambling Commission

The UK Gambling Commission announced the newly appointed members of the Industry Forum, which is made up of members from Britain’s gambling industry. 

Providing the UKGC with further insight into the views of operators, the commission confirmed in November last year that Nick Rust (OBE), former Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, would be the first chair of the Industry Forum.

Other members include: 

• Tony Boulton – Director of Public Affairs at MERKUR UK
• Kirsty Caldwell – Founder of BetSmart Consultancy
• Charles Cohen – CEO and Founder of DoTrust Compliance
• Ashley Padgett – Director of Compliance at Flutter UK and Ireland
• Mark Pearson – Media Director at Betfred
• Nigel Roddis – Managing Director at Britbet
• Leo Walker – Customer Operations Director at Entain
• Helen Walton – Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of G.Games
• David Williams – Director of Public Affairs at Rank Group

The forum’s first meeting will take place on March 21.

Rust commented: “We had more than 40 applications from across the gambling industry from people wanting to take an active role in the inaugural Industry Forum.

“It was difficult to leave quite a few of those people out, but I’m delighted with the quality and experience of the appointees, and hope as a group we can offer perspectives from across all parts of the industry which the commission can draw upon to help evolve and improve its performance as the regulator.”

Mohegan

Mohegan has hired Ari Glazer as Chief Financial Officer, effective from May 1, 2024.

Reporting to President and CEO Ray Pineault, Glazer brings to the gaming operator over 20 years of investment banking experience advising global gaming and hospitality companies, as well as a wealth of financial acumen and industry knowledge. 

With a track record of leadership and strategic achievements, he will be responsible for Mohegan’s financial activities, including financial planning and analysis, capital markets, accounting, tax, treasury, procurement and cash management.

Pineault commented: “Ari embodies the visionary leadership and deep financial insight that Mohegan is looking for at this stage of our growth. His skills will be key to our strategy of diversifying Mohegan’s portfolio and strengthening our fiscal foundation.”

Glazer will be replacing Carol Anderson at Mohegan, who is departing the company on March 31, 2024. In the interim, Pineault will report financial functions.

Before joining Mohegan, Glazer spent 20 years at Citigroup, most recently serving as Managing Director and Global Head of Gaming and Hospitality client coverage. He brings both US and international financial market experience to the operator.

“I am honoured to join Mohegan and to contribute to the company’s dynamic and innovative trajectory,” added Glazer. 

“I look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance our financial performance, optimise our capital structure and support Mohegan’s ambitious vision as its new Chief Financial Officer.”

Checkd Group

Checkd Group has launched a new digital PR team to improve its organic search performance across the UK and North America, appointing James Dixon as Head of Digital PR at Checkd Media.

Dixon will work on boosting the visibility of the technology-led sports betting specialist’s proprietary brands in the UK, US, Canada and South America, in addition to providing digital PR services to partners through the creation of a performance marketing service offering.

Alex Beecham, Managing Director at Checkd Media, said: “The establishment of our new digital PR team serves as a watershed moment, as we bid to enhance the visibility of our leading brands and content.

“The new personalities and expertise we have brought on board will help us to reach new audiences all over the world. It’s a really exciting time for us and represents real progress for our team.”

With 10 years of igaming experience, Dixon joins from online casino affiliate BonusFinder. He will be supported by George Rogan and Liam Conroy, who have joined Checkd Media as Digital PR Managers, as well as Charlie Giblin who has been appointed Digital PR Executive.  

Dixon added: “This is a key moment for the trajectory of the organic team, bringing together an industry-leading passionate and experienced team that will accelerate the growth of Checkd Group’s brands going forward.

“The benefits of having a team in-house have already been visible with huge improvements in our keyword rankings resulting in record monthly traffic and conversions, with the teams’ improved efficiency meaning we can react quickly to leverage key opportunities to improve the authority and expertise of the brands. 

“The team are going to be living and breathing the brands and we’ve made sure to bring in a lot of very experienced people who understand the kind of ideas and approaches that work as we establish a forward-thinking team to tackle our brands’ strategies.”

Bluberi

Bluberi has promoted Steve Kohon to the position of Chief Operating Officer.

As COO, Kohon will be responsible for driving the product and technology company’s internal operations, leading production, field services, and information technology departments. 

In addition, he will also be in charge of managing and executing internal corporate goals, aligning with CEO Andrew Burke and the executive management team.

Kohon noted: “The opportunity to move into the role of COO is a testament to our unique Bluberi culture. Bringing the perspective and experience of casino operators deeper into the organisation will allow us to continue to differentiate Bluberi in our pursuit of being the easiest company to do business with.

“Operations, field services, and IT play an important role in accomplishing our company goals and I am excited to lead this organisation into the next phase of our growth.”

Kohon brings experience in product management and sales to the COO position, having previously worked as Bluberi’s Executive Vice President of Operations and Service and as Vice President of Sales, West Region. He has also worked in sales positions for Konami Gaming.

Burke added: “Over the past three years, Steve has worked tirelessly inside and outside of the organisation to build trust and goodwill. I’m confident that in his new role as our COO, he will bring the voice of our customers into our internal operations.

“I’m looking forward to working more closely with him and watching him develop further. His ceiling is extremely high, and I can’t wait to see what he does in 2024 and beyond.”

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Four Winds Casinos

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi‘s Four Winds Casinos has promoted Mary Smith to the position of Chief Operating Officer.

Smith has been with Four Winds since 2007, most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Casino Operations. She is a citizen of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi and is also the first female executive to serve as COO of Four Winds Casinos.

“We are very pleased to promote Mary Smith to the role of Chief Operating Officer,” commented Rebecca Richards, Tribal Council Chair of the Pokagon Band and CEO of the Pokagon Gaming Authority. 

“In addition to being a Pokagon Citizen and the first female executive to take the helm as COO, Mary is a long-time member of our casino operations team, who has been with us from the beginning. 

“Her knowledge and diverse experience with the inner workings of our organisation will provide her with the necessary perspective and insight to lead Four Winds Casinos into the future.”

Smith added: “It is a tremendous honour to be named COO of Four Winds Casinos. I want to thank Chairwoman Richards and the Pokagon Gaming Authority for their confidence in my ability to serve on the casino operations team in this capacity. I look forward to continuing my service to my tribe and leading Four Winds Casinos for years to come.”

Digicode

Software solutions provider Digicode has appointed Itai Zak as its Executive Director of iGaming.

Zak brings over 15 years of igaming experience to Digicode, having previously worked as the CEO of SBTech, GoWild Gaming, and Spiral Solutions.

As an Executive Director, Zak will be responsible for Digicode’s igaming strategy and will work closely with its product development and sales teams to deliver solutions for igaming operators.

Zak commented: “I am excited to join Digicode and lead their igaming division. Digicode has a proven track record of delivering innovative software solutions, and I am eager to contribute to their continued success in the igaming market.”

Max Maslii, President and global CEO at Digicode, added: “We are thrilled to have Itai Zak join our team. His deep understanding of the igaming landscape and leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our foothold in this dynamic industry. 

“Also, Itai’s proven track record in navigating complex regulatory environments, coupled with his forward-thinking approach to product and market strategy, positions Digicode for exciting advancements in its igaming offerings.”

Mohegan 

Mohegan has added Kurt Shotzberger as Vice President of Financial Planning & Analysis. 

In this role, Shotzberger will lead Mohegan’s budgeting, financial modelling, forecasting and financial and operational analysis as well as strategic planning.

“Kurt’s extensive background in finance and gaming brings a unique perspective and invaluable expertise to our team,” said Ray Pineault, President and CEO of Mohegan. 

“His skills will be crucial as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape in our industry, and we’re really looking forward to seeing the innovative direction Kurt will offer as part of Mohegan.”

Shotzberger brings over two decades of finance experience to Mohegan, including 15 years in gaming, working for the likes of IGT and Wachovia Securities.

“Stepping into the role at Mohegan allows me to apply my background in a manner that aligns with my professional ethos,” added Shotzberger.

“This opportunity is both a privilege and a significant responsibility which I am eager to begin while making meaningful contributions along the way.”

GAN

GAN has named Seamus McGill as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Having previously served as interim CEO, McGill will remain on GAN’s board of directors and will be focused on guiding the company towards a timely closing of its transaction with Sega Sammy Creation.

“Seamus has the full backing of the board of directors and we are confident that his experience and leadership make him the most qualified candidate to be GAN’s next CEO,” said David Goldberg, the Company’s Chairman of the Board. 

“Seamus has been with the company since 2014 and has a deep understanding of GAN’s products, customers, and strategy. On behalf of the entire board of directors, I’d like to congratulate Seamus on his appointment and we look forward to his success.”

McGill added: “It’s an honour to be named GAN’s CEO and I’d like to thank David and the board for their vote of confidence. Going forward, our focus remains unchanged. We remain committed to a timely closing of our transaction with Sega Sammy to maximise value for all of our stakeholders.”

Sportradar

Sportradar has appointed Felippe Marchetti as its Integrity Partnerships Manager in Brazil.

In this role, Marchetti will be in charge of the strategic development of Sportradar’s Integrity Services in Brazil, in addition to overseeing the company’s integrity relationships with the Brazilian Football Confederation, the South American Football Confederation and other clients in the region.

Before joining Sportradar, Marchetti served as a researcher for the Brazilian Ministry of Sport and as an independent sports integrity consultant.

Andreas Krannich, EVP of Integrity, Rights Protection and Regulatory Services at Sportradar, said: “As the sports betting market regulates in Brazil, the need for robust and resilient integrity services has never been greater.

“I’m excited to have Felippe join our team to oversee our work in Brazil and lead our efforts to safeguard the integrity of competitions in this growing market.”   

Aristocrat

Aristocrat has announced that Jennifer Aument has resigned from her position as a Non-Executive Director.

Aument has stepped down from her role with Aristocrat because she has accepted a CEO role in the US transport sector.

Neil Chatfield, Chair of Aristocrat, said: “We are disappointed that Jennifer has resigned as a result of her executive appointment, however, we understand that her skills are highly valued and we thank her for the excellent contribution she has made since being nominated to our board in April 2023. We wish Jennifer all the best in her new role.” 

Aristocrat added that it will begin a search for a new US-based Non-Executive Director and will provide updates when appropriate.

The post Four Winds Casinos, Mohegan, GAN: on the move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The first opening phase includes the resort’s three hotel towers, the country’s first multi-purpose arena, as well as meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibition facilities such as Korea’s largest ballroom, signature restaurants, and the digital entertainment street Aurora.

With the tagline ‘Inspiring Worlds, Inspiring People’, Mohegan plans to continue to open the entire INSPIRE resort in phases during the first half of 2024. 

“This is a momentous occasion for Mohegan, marking both a historic partnership for our Tribe and a new echelon for our system of premier integrated entertainment resorts around the world,” stated James Gessner Jr, Chairman of the Mohegan Tribe and the Mohegan management board.

“We have been honoured to work closely with the Korean government to make this day possible, and we look forward to INSPIRE contributing to the local and regional economies by creating local jobs, bringing visitors to enjoy the Incheon region, and attracting new businesses both on and adjacent to the property.

“I am grateful to the Mohegan and Mohegan INSPIRE teams for their efforts and their leadership and look forward to many years of success and partnership in South Korea.”

The soft opening will feature the resort’s three hotel towers – Forest Tower, Sun Tower and Ocean Tower – together have 1,275 rooms as well as their own unique concept, while the multi-purpose indoor INSPIRE Arena has a 15,000-seat capacity.

The 150-meter-long Aurora digital entertainment street will also be revealed, which includes large LED screens, alongside the glass-domed Splash Bay indoor water park, state-of-the-art meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibition facilities and 10 INSPIRE-owned restaurants including Michael Jordan’s Steak House.

Mohegan will also have several consumer promotions and brand campaigns to promote the INSPIRE soft opening first phase.

Ray Pineault, President and CEO of Mohegan, noted: “INSPIRE is significant to us not only for our growth in the global market but also for the opportunity to share Mohegan’s legacy and spirit with the world.

“Together as a team, we look forward to bringing this incredible entertainment destination to Asia, offering the top-notch hospitality services and products that our guests expect from our brand.”

Following the soft opening, INSPIRE Mall and a foreigner-exclusive casino are expected to open in Q1 2024. 

The outdoor entertainment facility Discovery Park will follow in Q2, as well as an international food court in collaboration with Glow Seoul, Splash Bay’s water attractions, Korea’s largest digital immersive content exhibition centre and an indoor children’s playground.

Chen Si, President of Mohegan INSPIRE after joining in September, added: “We are delighted that project INSPIRE, aimed at creating a leading entertainment-integrated resort in Northeast Asia in Incheon, South Korea, has reached a major milestone.

“I would like to express a sincere gratitude to the Korean government, municipalities, local communities and our team members for their support and collaboration on this project. As we grow with the community, we will establish ourselves as an ultimate entertainment destination that attracts visitors from around the world, filled with inspiration and innovation.”

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