On June 27, Norsk Tipping, Norway’s state-owned gambling operator, notified 47,000 lottery players that they had won amounts far exceeding their actual prizes. 

A coding error had caused the mistake to send out the inflated prizes, although no mistakes were made in payouts. 

In a statement on the Norwegian Lottery Authority’s website, Anya Therese Markhus, Senior Advisor at the organization, stated: “Norsk Tipping has violated the Gambling Act. People should be able to trust their games. The fact that several thousand players receive a notice of excessive winnings is clearly harmful to trust.”

Norsk Tipping CEO Resigns After Disappointing Players

Norsk Tipping CEO Tonje Sagstuen resigned a day after the error, commenting: “I am terribly sorry that we have disappointed so many, and I understand that people are angry with us. Criticism is justified given the breach of trust.” 

Sagstuen continued: “To them I can only say: Sorry! But I understand that it is a small consolation.”

Ole Fredrik Sveen, a teacher, recounted being abroad in Greece when he received a message declaring a NOK 1.2 million ($120,000) win, when in fact he’d only won NOK 125 ($12). 

Sveen said, “At first you’re ecstatic… then thankfully we kept our heads cool and realised it wasn’t meant to be this time either.”

He added that he had “lost confidence in the lottery and would think twice about playing in future.”

A Series of Errors From Norsk Tipping

Erlend Hanstveit, State Secretary to Norway’s Culture Minister, Lubna Jaffery, commented that the error was “serious and indicates that the company does not have adequate control procedures.”

He added that it is not the first time Norsk Tipping has made a mistake, stating, “Unfortunately, this error is part of a series of incidents at Norsk Tipping in recent times.”

“Ever since the first errors were uncovered, the ministry has closely followed the matter, and we have an ongoing dialogue with both Norsk Tipping and the Norwegian Lottery Authority. We need to understand how such errors can happen and how we can prevent them from occurring in the future.”

The operator is also under investigation for reportedly allowing minors to engage in gambling activities. The Norwegian Lottery Authority received an alert from a bank that a large sum of money had been transferred from a minor to Norsk Tipping.

The investigation is ongoing with Tore Bell, Department Director at the Norwegian Lottery Authority, stating: “It is too early to determine what has happened. We will investigate the matter further and have asked Norsk Tipping for more information.”

This investigation comes after the regulator issued a fine of NOK 4.5 million (approximately $440,000) for a payout error, which resulted in a player being paid NOK 25 million (approximately $2.5 million).

Norsk Tipping had not realized the error until the player alerted the operator. In line with its customer agreement, the player paid back the money.

After ruling that the recent error is also in violation of the country’s Gambling Act, another fine is likely to be forthcoming. 

The post Norsk Tipping Broke Law By Inflating Lottery Winner Prizes, Rules Regulator appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The regulator received a tip from a bank that a “relatively large amount of money” had been transferred from an individual under the legal gambling age of 18 to Norsk Tipping. According to Lotteritilsynet, since January 2024, Norsk Tipping has received tips about 21 similar cases.

The investigation marks the second time within a year that Norsk Tipping has come under fire from the regulator. Last fall, the operator received a fine of NOK 4.5 million ($443,000) for mistakenly paying out a customer NOK 25 million ($2.46 million)

Minors Were Sharing Adult Accounts to Wager On Norsk Tipping

In a press release, the regulator emphasized that it’s too early to determine precisely what happened. However, according to Tore Bell, Department Director at Lotteritilsynet, the organization has requested more information from Norsk Tipping.

Some of the initial findings are that there are no indications that minors have created accounts at Norsk Tipping. Instead, based on the information gathered, Lotteritilsynet determined that an adult user was sharing or lending their account to a minor.

The regulator emphasizes that it is a violation of Norway’s Gambling Act and the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Lotteritilsynet Raises Nine Questions for Norsk Tipping

The regulator and the operator have already conducted two phone calls on May 8 and May 9. They also had a meeting on May 13. As part of the investigation, Lotteritilsynet sent a letter to Norsk Tipping, raising nine questions:

• When were Apple Pay and Vipps payment methods introduced, and what risk assessments did Norsk Tipping make?
• Have there been follow-up risk evaluations after learning that minors may be gambling with borrowed accounts?
• Has Norsk Tipping considered notifying Lotteritilsynet about the 21 reported cases?
• Has there been a follow-up to the 21 cases? How much was gambled?
• Have there been reports of similar cases before 2024? If so, how many?
• What actions has Norsk Tipping taken to prevent underage gambling using others’ accounts?
• Following up on the May 13 meeting between the regulator and the operator, has Norsk Tipping considered removing Vipps and Apple Pay as payment options?
• How are Vipps and Apple Pay assessed concerning age restriction rules and requirements for proper account misuse controls?
• How do Vipps and Apple Pay comply with anti-money laundering rules when it cannot be verified whether the funds belong to the account holder?

Lotteritilsynet has given Norsk Tipping two weeks to respond to the questions.

Regulators Step Up Market Oversight

The underage gambling case comes amid the regulator’s efforts to strengthen oversight of the gambling market in Norway. As part of that, Lotteritilsynet launched a new DNS blocking campaign in April, which immediately blocked 57 illegal sites operated by 23 companies.

Meanwhile, around the same time, another regulator, Lottstift, launched a new four-year program to combat match-fixing in sports.

The “Combating Manipulation of Sports Competitions – A Strategy Plan 2025-2028” brings together key stakeholders, including he police, the Lottery and Foundations Authority, the Norwegian Football Association, the Norwegian Trotting Association, the Ministry of Culture, the police force, and licensed betting firms.

The plan emphasizes preventive education through public awareness campaigns and regular threat assessments to identify possible upcoming areas of concern.

The post Norsk Tipping Under Investigation Over Suspected Gambling by Minors appeared first on CasinoBeats.

The Norwegian Gambling Authority, Lotteritilsynet, made the move, marking the Scandinavian country’s first-ever use of DNS blocking to restrict online gambling activity.

Norwegian regulators have also stipulated that only two operators—Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto—are legally allowed to offer gambling services in the country. They state that they have targeted 57 sites operated by 23 firms without a license to serve Norwegian nationals.

“Blocking illegal websites will help fewer people develop gambling problems,” said Silje Sægrov Amble, a lawyer representing Lotteritilsynet. “These are the games that have the highest risk—they are designed to get you hooked, and you can lose a lot of money in a short time.”

As a result of the DNS block, Norwegians who attempt to enter unlicensed gambling websites will be redirected to a warning page hosted by their internet service provider. Meanwhile, other users may instead see messages stating that the site does not exist or that the internet connection is not private.

April’s widespread ban follows warnings by the regulator last autumn, which were issued to nearly 50 companies whose websites risked being blocked. Despite some firms initially refusing, almost 40 of the 100 targeted sites did withdraw from the Norwegian market or make the necessary changes to ensure they complied.  

Mounting Pressure on Illegal Operators in Norway

Lotteritilsynet declared that its DNS rollout is part of a larger strategy that includes advertising bans and, in some cases, banking restrictions. Norwegian banks have been blocking gambling-related transactions with illegal providers since 2010, and more recently, the 2021 legislation banned TV advertising by foreign operators.

Stressing previous regulatory efforts to curb the trend, Amble stated, “It is becoming increasingly difficult to be an illegal gambling company in Norway,” insisting, “TV advertising is gone, and Norwegian banks are stopping bets and winnings to and from these companies.”

Despite Lotteritilsynet’s countermeasures, raising public awareness of the issue is still challenging, as illustrated by a recent Sentio survey, which found that 5 out of 10 Norwegians do not know whether the sites they use are legally authorized.

“Players do not know about the risk,” said Amble. “We believe most people want information that they are entering an illegal game—therefore, blocking is also an information measure.”

While Norway’s most recent campaign to tackle the ongoing issue is undoubtedly a step up from its earlier measures, Lotteritilsynet understands the DNS implementation won’t entirely solve the problem and continues to call for further enhanced monitoring and enforcement measures.

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Matt Bastock

EveryMatrix has announced a deal with Norsk Tipping to provide a range of in-house and aggregated content and bespoke casual game development. 

The company has shared that the deal spans two main business areas. The first will see aggregation platform SlotMatrix provide Norsk Tipping and its players with a range of third-party online casino content. 

A Record-Breaking Deal for SlotMatrix

The deal has been noted as the largest in SlotMatrix’s history. It will also provide new and existing in-house titles from company-owned studios. 

This marks an extension of a long-running partnership between Norsk Tipping and EveryMatrix. The companies first signed an agreement in 2016, and EveryMatrix’s CasinoEngine platform has powered the Norsk Tipping casino offering since. 

Ebbe Groes, CEO and Co-Founder of EveryMatrix commented, “I’m delighted Norsk Tipping, one of our most valued partners, has chosen to continue to put their trust in us after almost 10 years of collaboration, and we look forward to even more years working together.”

In addition to utilizing SlotMatrix, Norsk Tipping will also use EveryMatrix Games to push third-party content for its ‘Yezz’ vertical. Yezz provides what’s described as a ‘range of entertaining, mobile-first casual games that appeal to next-generation players.’ The release also notes that Yezz players typically have longer session times. 

Lars Martin Ottesen, Casino Product Manager at Norsk Tipping, said, “We are glad to extend our partnership with EveryMatrix to be able to source casino content that matches our ambitions for years to come. We are confident that EveryMatrix’s expertise will provide great value for Norsk Tipping and support us in our overall content strategy.”

“We look forward to developing the Yezz category further with EveryMatrix as an aggregator of high-quality games that are entertaining and with longer duration,” added Svein-Erik Sæther, Product Manager for Yezz at Norsk Tipping. 

The State-Owned Entity Not Immune to Fines

In October 2024, Norsk Tipping was fined NOK 4.5 million by the Norwegian Gambling and Foundation Authority Lotteritilsynet for an error in which a player was paid NOK 25 million in error. 

The error resulted from an overpayment on Tipping’s KongKasino, which was meant to have a maximum prize of NOK 100,000 and a jackpot of NOK 5 million. The state-run operator did not discover the error until the player notified Norsk Tipping of the mistake.

The regulator acknowledged the potential danger to the individual should it have been paid out to a user who was at risk or experiencing harm from gambling. It commented, “Norsk Tipping did not have good enough security measures linked to prize payouts at KongKasino when the error occurred, and this is a serious system failure.

It continued, “They have subsequently introduced measures, and we have included that in the assessment of the fee.” 

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Lotteritilsynet stated that back in March, Norsk Tipping paid a player NOK 25m by mistake from its online casino game KongKasino, despite the game only having a maximum prize of NOK 100,000 and a jackpot prize of NOK 5m.

The operator told the authority that it happened due to an unexpected error that was difficult to predict. However, the error had not been discovered until the player who received the money notified Norsk Tipping of the mistake.

The player paid back the prize to Norsk Tipping in line with its customer agreement.

In July, Lotteritilsynet sent a notice of infringement fees to Norsk Tipping, but the comments it has received from the operator haven’t changed its opinion on the matter.

Within its decision, the authority stated that it “understands that Norsk Tipping cannot predict and prevent all types of incidents and that errors will occur”, but added the operator must have the correct systems in place to stay compliant with the country’s laws. 

The decision said: “As a provider of gambling that requires a permit, Norsk Tipping is obliged to establish routines that ensure that they comply with the requirements of the Gambling Act and the Gambling Regulations, cf. Gambling Regulations Section 2.

“The information we have received from Norsk Tipping in the case shows that the company at the time of the incident only carried out additional checks which could have prevented this type of incorrect payment for premiums over NOK 50m. 

“In our view, this threshold for additional controls is too high. We would like to point out that Norsk Tipping offers several games where the regulated prize limits are set significantly lower to prevent gambling problems, and that it is very rare that prizes over NOK 50m are paid out by the company. 

“Norsk Tipping has also stated that, following the incident with the incorrect payout, they have identified a need for, and have introduced, additional controls for prizes, at or above the prize limit of NOK 100,000 from KongKasino.”

Reflecting on the case, Lotteritilsynet Director Atle Hamar said in a statement on the authority’s website that the incorrect payment was a “serious breach” of Norway’s gambling law and that the money could have gone to someone who had a gambling problem or was at risk.

Hamar commented: “Norsk Tipping did not have good enough security measures linked to prize payouts at KongKasino when the error occurred, and this is a serious system failure. 

“They have subsequently introduced measures, and we have included that in the assessment of the fee.”

Norsk Tipping can appeal the decision and has a deadline of three weeks from the decision being received to do so.

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Grand Casino Brussels

Per Jaldung has announced that he will become the new CEO of Grand Casino Brussels at Viage in Brussels, Belgium.

Jaldung brings to Grand Casino Brussels more than 20 years of experience in the casino and gaming industry, including working for the European Casino Association for almost nine years as Chair of the Board and Honorary President.

In a LinkedIn post, Jaldung said: “I am proud to announce that I have received a contract as an independent business partner via my firm Maxor AB as CEO of the Grand Casino Brussels @ Viage in Brussels, Belgium (part of Casinos Austria International) starting on Dec 11. 

“I am really looking forward to getting back into the casino world. I have missed it and I can’t wait to get on board with the experienced team Viage.”

Evoplay

Vladimir Malakchi has announced that he will be leaving his position as Chief Commercial Officer of Evoplay.

Malakchi has been with Evoplay for over four years, initially joining the company in December 2019 as Chief Business Development Officer before transitioning into the CCO role in March 2021.

In a long LinkedIn post, Malakchi reflected on his time with Evoplay, how the company has grown and faced challenges, and stated that he will be remaining within the igaming industry in his next role.

He said: “I’m grateful to many and would love to mention all the people who were part of my journey, but I suppose LinkedIn can block me for such a lengthy message. So I’ll mention only one person, without whom none of this would have happened: Ivan Kravchuk. My friend, thank you for once believing in me and insisting that I become part of this wonderful company. 

“This industry has given me an unrealistic number of close friends, and that cannot be bought for any amount of money. I’m sure Evoplay will continue to grow further, as its passion, resources, and ambitions will only grow and develop. And the industry still awaits many surprises.”

Las Vegas Sands

Paul Myatt has announced his resignation from the position of Vice President, Commercial for Las Vegas Sands.

Myatt leaves LVS after only joining the operator in June earlier this year. He has also previously worked for Aspire Global, Quickspin and NetEnt.

He said in a LinkedIn post: “I have resigned from my position and today is my last day. I’m very thankful for the experience and I wish all my colleagues, clients, and customers the very best of luck for the future.

“I’ll be taking a few months off to enjoy Christmas and New Year and look forward to working on exciting new igaming opportunities in 2024.”

Raketech

Raketech Group has appointed Marina Andersson and Patrick Jonker as members of its board of directors.

At the company’s annual shareholders meeting, both Andersson and Jonker were unanimously voted onto the board to replace the recent resignations of Pierre Cadena and Johan Svensson.

Andersson has over 20 years in senior corporate development and mergers and acquisitions, previously holding roles with Stillfront Group and Deloitte. She has experience in financial and strategic advisory, transaction structuring, and company valuation.

Experienced in the international casino and sports betting industry, Jonker has held senior positions at Betsson Group and William Hill.

Norsk Tipping

Norsk Tipping has confirmed the permanent appointment of Tonje Sagstuen as CEO.

Sagstuen has been the interim CEO of Norway’s state-owned lottery operator since September, replacing Thor Gjermund Eriksen who left the operator.

At Norsk Tipping, Sagstuen has also served in the roles of deputy CEO and as Chief Officer of Responsibility, Society, and Communication.

Sylvia Brustad, Chair of Norsk Tipping, noted: “Today I am pleased to be able to present Tonje Sagstuen as the new CEO of Norsk Tipping. With her, Norsk Tipping gets a skilled and experienced manager who knows the company and its employees very well.

“The board has appreciated the work Sagstuen has done as acting CEO, and is pleased that she has accepted the position on a permanent basis. We are convinced that Sagstuen is the right person to lead Norsk Tipping going forward.”

Tabcorp

Tabcorp has appointed Mark Howell as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer, starting before June 2024.

Howell will be joining Tabcorp from Coles Group Limited Liquor business where he is the General Manager Liquor Finance & Network Optimisation.

He has experience in both consumer and retail industries, having held senior finance, strategy, business development and investor relations roles at Coles before its demerger from Wesfarmers Limited.

He has also held senior investment banking roles at Rothschild and Goldman Sachs in Australia and New York and began his career at Ernst and Young.

Tabcorp Managing Director and CEO Adam Rytenskild said: “Mark is the perfect fit for Tabcorp as we deliver our transformation. He’s passionate about our growth story and dynamic in his thinking. 

“Wagering is one of the most competitive industries in Australia and Mark comes from an equally competitive customer-focused industry. His experience leading finance teams at Coles and working closely with investors will be invaluable moving forward.”

Konami Gaming

Konami Gaming has appointed Eric Schultz as Vice President of Studio Operations.

Schultz will lead Konami’s overall game development across software development, art design, sound design, math design, and project management. 

He has over 20 years of experience in gaming and has previously worked for the company, beginning with the software engineering team in 2004 before moving into the position of Senior Director of Game Software Engineering in 2014.

Steve Sutherland, President and CEO at Konami Gaming, commented: “Eric Schultz brings a demonstrated ability to effectively manage multidisciplinary teams to achieve strong product outcomes in the field for our casino customers and their players. 

“Our team is committed to growth in expanding sectors and global markets, and we look forward to continued momentum with Eric’s leadership and cooperative efforts across Konami’s world-class game studios.”

The post Evoplay, LVS, Grand Casino Brussels: on the move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Reducing their marketing costs by June 30, 2024, Lotteritilsynet has stated that Norsk Tipping must cut back by at least NOK 45m (20 per cent), while Norsk Rikstoto will cut back close to NOK 3.4m (5.2 per cent).

Norsk Tipping has to cut back on marketing more than Norsk Rikstoto because the competition for the companies’ games faces different competition from the illegal players.

The gambling authority noted that it is ‘satisfied’ that both operators have completed the process of reducing marketing pressure.

Atle Hamar, General Director of Lotteritilsynet, said: “Advertising and marketing for gambling is harmful for those who have problems with gambling.

“According to Norwegian law, gambling can only be marketed as far as is necessary to inform about the gambling offer and lead the desire to gamble in society to responsible and safe gambling.”

The decision to reduce marketing comes as illegal gambling advertisements are removed from Norwegian TV.

In turn, Lotteritilsynet notified Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto in August 2022 that they must take measures to reduce advertising, which they have adopted.

Hamar stated: “The illegal providers’ bets on horses with fixed odds are not in direct competition with the bets of the Norwegian National Sports Confederation. 

“Nevertheless, we have seen that such games have been marketed by the illegal players in order to lure Norwegians to an illegal casino offer.”

Earlier this month, Norway’s government amended its gambling act to allow Lotteritilsynet to block illegal websites starting next year.

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Norsk Tipping

The Norwegian government has confirmed the appointment of Tonje Sagstuen as the acting CEO of Norsk Tipping. 

She will replace Thor Gjermund Eriksen in the role ahead of an impending departure from Norway’s gambling and lotteries monopoly at the end of this month.

The search for Norsk Tipping’s permanent CEO is underway, led by company chair Sylvia Brustad who remarked: “I am pleased that Tonje has agreed to lead the company until a new managing director is appointed.”

Sightline Payments

Sightline Payments has confirmed several changes to its executive leadership team, including that Omer Sattar will become the fintech firm’s sole CEO. 

Sattar will transition from Co-CEO to take on sole duties of leading the company into this new era after being named as the “strategic leader”.

Elsewhere, Mike McManus has been appointed as President of Customer Innovation, where he will lead the unit as the company aims to improve its omnichannel payment offerings. 

Further changes include Jonathan Michaels, who moves from his prior role of SVP of Strategic Development & Government Affairs to lead his new company, Michaels Strategies. 

Felicia Gassen will continue her role as Chief of Staff, but will also take on additional responsibilities as Chief Administrative Officer.

Finally, Tom Sears, who is the Chief Operating Officer of the company, will transition into an advisory role after taking on a Strategic Advisor to the CEO position. With 13 years of experience, Sears will finalize his role as COO on September 15.

“Tom Sears’ dedication and insight have been integral to Sightline’s success, he has been our master watch builder and we could not have done this without him,” Sattar explained 

“His transition to Special Advisor is a reflection of our trust in his wisdom and the value we place on his strategic counsel. 

“Though we’ll miss his daily operational leadership, we know that his influence will continue to guide us as we embrace the next decade of innovation. 

“On behalf of everyone at Sightline and its original founders (Kirk Sanford, Diran Kludjian, and Harry Hagerty), I extend heartfelt thanks to Tom for his remarkable contributions and wish him the very best in this next phase of his journey with our team.”

Rank Group

Rank Group has appointed Keith Laslop to its board of directors as a Non-Executive Director and member of the Audit Committee, which will take effect from September 1, 2023.

Laslop previously served as Chief Financial Officer at Gamesys Group between 2013 and 2021, before acting as a consultant until March 2023 following the company’s acquisition by Bally’s Corporation.

Alex Thursby, Chair, said “We are delighted to welcome Keith to the Rank board. His extensive financial and digital gaming experience will enhance the effectiveness and skillset of our Board and will support our growth strategy.  We look forward to working with him over the coming years.”

B90 Holdings

Andrew McIver, former CEO of Jackpotjoy Plc and Sportingbet, has accepted the position of Non-Executive Director at newly-launched igaming operator B90 Holdings.

B90, which aims to establish a portfolio of Europe-wide challenger igaming brands and media portals, has recruited McIver to serve as a corporate NED to help guide the business through its rapid growth phase.

In other developments, the firm has announced the appointment of Farzad Peyman as Chief Finance and M&A Development Officer. 

Ronny Breivik, Executive Chair of B90, commented: “I am delighted to welcome both Andrew and Farzad to B90. I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working with Andrew for many years. He is a respected figure in the gaming industry, boasting a wealth of unparalleled experience. Farzad is also a significant name in the sector, and I’m pleased to collaborate with him once more.

“Andrew and Farzad’s appointments follow the recruitment of Mark Blandford, founder of Sportingbet plc, as a Strategic Adviser to B90 earlier this year. Our team is eagerly anticipating the pooling of our collective insight, knowledge, strategic experience, and networks. This collaboration will allow us to capitalise on the opportunities we have identified, setting the stage for robust growth.”

Racecourse Media Group

Ryan Thurburn has joined Racecourse Media Group senior leadership as its first Chief Product Officer, bringing with him extensive experience of bookmaking business.

Primary responsibilities will be to deliver a thorough customer experience to racing viewers and bettors via RMG’s products, including cooperation with the betting and gaming industry.

“I’m thrilled to be joining RMG, which has achieved great success through driving innovation in racing – the bedrock of the betting industry,” he commented:

“As someone who has worked within betting for many years, the opportunity to influence positively the direction of the sport through product innovation, for the consumer, whilst stimulating growth for shareholders, is one that fosters excitement and passion.”

“I am very much looking forward to working with the RMG leadership team as well as other internal and external stakeholders to define a modern, forward thinking, innovative vision and strategy to cultivate growth for shareholders – with customers and the sport at the very heart of everything.”

The post Sightline, Norsk Tipping and Rank: on the move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

As part of Veikkaus’ international B2B division, Fennica will provide game services and products globally with the two aforementioned integrating the product into their range.

The supplier agreements were arranged due to Veikkaus, the Finish state-backed operator’s s reaching a deal between its new subsidiary and the Lotteries Entertainment Innovation Alliance. 

“The long and thorough preparations are now over, and we have launched the new business operations,” stated Timo Kiiskinen, Fennica MD and former Veikkaus SVP of New Business.

“We are living in historic moments in our industry. The new company enables us to commercialise the gambling industry expertise that we have in Finland.”

Under the terms of Fennica’s debut supplier deals, Norsk Tipping has adopted the Sinnatagger (The Tantrums) and Tutifrutti (Fruttis) games from April 20 onwards, Gullfeber (Northern Jack) from April 26 and Fugleflokken (Chirpamore) from May 2. 

The scope of the Swedish arrangement is more limited than its Norwegian counterpart, with Svenska Spel offering its players Nokkapokka (Chirpamore) games since April 25. 

Hans Erland Ringsvold, Head of Gaming Operations of Norsk Tipping, noted: “Norsk Tipping has followed the development of eiInstants at Veikkaus with keen interest over many years.

“We are building up a new portfolio of games in an entertainment category we call Yezz, and the games from Fennica with innovative game play, modern Scandinavian design and interesting game logic are an important addition to this portfolio.”

Veikkaus was enabled to expand its remit from B2C betting and gaming operations in the domestic market under the terms of the Lotteries Act implemented in Finland earlier this year.

The post Veikkaus’ Fennica Gaming B2B subsidiary enters European market appeared first on CasinoBeats.

FanDuel

FanDuel has appointed Tricia Alcamo as Chief People Officer, where she will be responsible for the acceleration of the group’s strategy within the area to maintain its growth trajectory.

Alcamo will lead the firm’s human resources organisation inclusive of culture development, talent acquisition, diversity, equity and inclusion, organisational effectiveness, employment branding, learning and development, compensation, and employee benefits in service to its sportsbook, casino, racing, daily fantasy, retail and corporate functions.

“I am incredibly excited to welcome Tricia to my leadership team as our new Chief People Officer,” commented Amy Howe, President & CEO of FanDuel.

“Tricia has had a distinguished career building and running award-winning human resources teams at media companies like our own and at globally trusted brands.

“Her arrival reflects our investment in our people and our commitment to a culture that recognizes and attracts the most talented team while providing them the most empathetic and inclusive environment to succeed.”

Norsk Tipping 

Norsk Tipping, Norway’s state-backed betting and lottery monopoly, has confirmed the appointment of Thor Gjermund Eriksen as CEO. 

A career journalist, Eriksen most recently served as Director-General of the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation, having held the position since 2013. 

Although his tenure was not due to expire until 2025, Eriksen had previously detailed that he wished to exit the position this year.

“This is a very exciting and challenging job, and I am very happy to have had this opportunity,” Eriksen commented. “I look forward to getting to know Norsk Tipping better, the challenges that await and not least everyone who works at Hamar.”

Eriksen will step down from his broadcasting role on April 29, before assuming his next position on September 12.

OpenBet

OpenBet has appointed Stewart Groumoutis as Commercial VP for Canada, expanding the sportsbook technology supplier business’ development resources within the marketplace. 

In his new remit, Groumoutis will look to maximise OpenBet’s commercial opportunities within Canada, as further provinces follow Ontario’s lead and launch regulated marketplaces.  

He joins the group’s North American senior management team after formerly serving as Director of eGaming for the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.

During this tenure, Groumoutis became familiar with OpenBet systems which served as the Columbia Lottery’s principal technology partner.

Cathryn Lai, Chief Commercial Officer of OpenBet, explained: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Stewart to the team. He understands the culture and best practices of OpenBet, which is hugely beneficial as we look to power more sportsbooks with our unrivalled technology, content and services across North America, including Canada.

 “Over the coming months, we anticipate increased commercial activity as demand for our products and services continues to grow. With the addition of Stewart, we are building an ultra-strong team full of passionate individuals that will see OpenBet maintain its position as a world leader within sports betting entertainment.”

Sportech

Sportech has announced that Giles Vardey has decided to end his tenure as Non-Executive Chair of the wagering and racing systems supplier. 

Last week, Vardey notified Sportech’s board of directors that he would not seek re-election as chair of the company, a position that he had served since July 2019.

Former Sportech Chief Executive Richard McGuire (2019-2021) has agreed to succeed Vardey as Non-Executive Chair, and will be accompanied by the appointment of Clive Whiley as a Senior Independent Director.

Commenting on his appointment, McGuire remarked: “Giles brought more than 35 years of business and boardroom experience to the role and served the Company professionally at every stage.

“I very much look forward to working with the Sportech Board and wider team and continuing the core strategic initiative to generate attractive shareholder returns.”

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